STUDY ONE

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STUDY ONE:
Topic: YE ARE MY FRIENDS
TEXTS: Gen. 18:16-33; Ex. 33:10; Jn. 15:13-15; Jas. 2:23
MEMORY VERSE: Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant
knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all
things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Jn.
15:15
INTRODUCTION
Friendship is a relationship that exists between two or more people. This
is characterized by love, affection, trust, faithfulness, transparency,
dependability and mutual respect. It has pleased the Lord to make us his
friends. Hence to consolidate this friendship, we must walk intimately
with him.
As we study, we shall be examining what true friendship entails.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Discuss freely, how you have related as a friend with someone
2. Discuss from the following scriptures what our friendship with God
entails. Gen. 18:16-33; Ex. 33:11; Prov. 17:17; 18:24; 27:6, 9, 10, 17; Jn.
15:13-15; Jas. 2:23.
CONCLUSION
It is a privilege to be friends with the Lord. He chose to bring us into this
relationship. Let us therefore avail ourselves of this privilege.
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STUDY TWO:
TOPIC: GOD’S GRACE AND MERCY
TEXTS: Rom. 5:1-8, 21; Eph. 2: 1-9
MEMORY VERSES: But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love
wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened
us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved). Eph. 2:4, 5.
INTRODUCTION
The terms mercy and grace have similar meanings, but they are not the
same. While mercy simply means, God not punishing us as our sins
deserve, grace on the other hand is God blessing us despite the fact that
we do not deserve it. That is why the Bible says “But God commendeth
his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us”
(Rom. 5:8).
This understanding helps us not only to always ascribe glory and praise to
Him, but to serve him with joy and with a grateful heart.
1. Discuss God’s grace and mercy from the following scriptures as the
basis of our friendship with God. Jn. 1:16-18; Rom. 3:23, 24; 5: 1-10; 9:
16; 1 Cor. 15:10; Eph. 1:6; 2:4, 8; Tit. 3:5; Heb. 4:16; 1 Pet. 1:3.
2. What should our attitude be with regards to God’s grace and mercy? 2
Cor. 6:1-10; 8:7-9; Gal. 2:21; Rom. 6:1,2.
CONCLUSION
Grace and mercy are gifts from God that should take us to our knees in
worship and adoration. We can bring absolutely nothing to God except a
humble and thankful heart. May God help us.
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STUDY THREE:
TOPIC: DEVELOPING INTIMACY WITH GOD
TEXTS: Ex. 33:7-19; Ps. 63:1-8; Phil. 3:7-15; Heb. 4:14-16
MEMORY VERSE: As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul
pants for you, O God. Ps. 42:1 (NIV).
INTRODUCTION
Intimacy is an experience of really knowing and being known by another.
God created man in His own image that He might have intimate
relationship with him. He desires every redeemed child of His to develop
intimacy with Him. However, it is not automatic; believers must be
deliberate in cultivating it.
In this study, we shall be considering how to develop intimacy with God.
1. How can believers develop intimacy with God from the following
scriptures? Job 23:12; Ps. 15:1-5; 27:4; 42:1, 2; 63:1-8; Dan. 6:10; Hab.
3:17-19; Jn. 5:30; 15:4-6; 2 Cor. 3:16-18; Phil. 3:7-15; Col. 3:1, 2; Heb.
1:9.
2. Discuss practical hindrance to developing intimacy with God.
CONCLUSION
In this study, we have seen practical things we can do to develop intimacy
with God. May we be willing to invest our all in cultivating this intimacy
with God.
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STUDY FOUR:
TOPIC: LISTENING AND RESPONDING TO GOD
TEXTS: Neh. 8:1-12; Acts 10:1-21
MEMORY VERSE: But those who look closely into the perfect law that
sets people free, who keep on paying attention to it and do not simply
listen and then forget it, but put it into practice, they will be blessed by
God in what they do. Jas. 1:25(GNB)
INTRODUCTION
Listening is to pay attention to or to take note of while responding is to
say something in return or to take action. God is always speaking to His
children and expects us to pay attention and responds appropriately. Any
Christian who desires to enjoy fellowship with God must cultivate these
attitudes. This is the focus of this study.
1. Discuss listening and responding to God from the scriptures below: Ex.
33:12-23; Neh. 8:1-12; 1 Sam. 23:1-5; 2 Sam. 12:1-14; Lk. 5:1-11; 10:38-
42; Acts 10:1-21; 18:9-11.
2. From the following scriptures, what are the effects of listening and
responding to God? Gen. 12:1-8; Deut. 28:1-13; 1 Chron. 14:8-17; Matt.
1:18-21, 24, 25; 2:12-15; Acts 10:23-33, 44-48.
CONCLUSION
Listening and responding to God appropriately give a believer confidence
and authority to live a victorious life. May God help us to so do.
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STUDY FIVE:
TOPIC: SUSTAINING OUR FRIENDSHIP WITH GOD
TEXTS: Gen. 22:1-18; Ps. 15:1-5
MEMORY VERSE: Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command
you. Jn. 15:14
INTRODUCTION
To sustain is to maintain, nourish or keep in existence. As friends of God,
there is a need for us to sustain this relationship, which requires deliberate
and conscious effort.
In this study, we shall be considering ways that would help us sustain our
friendship with God.
1. Discuss from these scriptures ways we can sustain our friendship with
God. Ps. 15:1-5; 84:1-5; 92:1-2; 119:11; 122:1-2; Mk. 1:35; Jn. 5:30;
8:29-31; 10:27; 12:24-26; 15:14-16; Jas. 4:4, 7, 8.
2. In what other ways can we sustain our relationship with God?
CONCLUSION
There are better ways to sustain our friendship with God than obeying his
word. Let us therefore endeavour to work towards sustaining our
friendship with Him.
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STUDY SIX:
TOPIC: IDENTIFYING WITH HIM
TEXTS: Jn. 18:15-27; Rom. 6:3-13
MEMORY VERSE: Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of
my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the
Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with
the holy angels. Mk. 8:38
INTRODUCTION
Identifying with someone is to understand and share someone else’s
feelings, to be involved or connected with the person, his opinions, ideas,
philosophies, and stands in life. It also includes being closely related to
him.
Therefore, identifying with Jesus entails having a close walking
relationship with him which translates into having a consistent stance with
him.
This study examines some of the ways that we can identify with God as
we relate with Him as a friend. May God give us understanding as we
study.
1. Discuss how we may identify with God from the following scriptures:
Gen. 39:2-10; Dan. 3:14-25; 6:6-22; Jn. 13:34, 35; 15:4-14; Gal. 2:20;
Rom. 1:14-16; 6:3-6; 12:1, 2; Phil. 3:7-11.
2. Discus other ways that we can identify with Jesus.
CONCLUSION
Having studied and understood what it means and how to identify with
God in our friendship with Him, let us appropriate grace for courage not
to neglect this as we walk with Him.
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STUDY SEVEN:
TOPIC: SACRIFICE: A NECESSARY INGREDIENT FOR
FRIENDSHIP
TEXTS: 1 Sam. 20:1-16; Phil. 2:3-8
MEMORY VERSE: Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay
down his life for his friends. Jn. 15:13
INTRODUCTION
Sacrifice is to deny oneself or to give oneself for the service of others
even to the point of death. It is essential to genuine friendship. Jesus
demonstrated this by denying himself of heavenly glory by becoming man
and even dying on the cross for our sake. In like manner, God expects us
to sacrifice our time, pleasure, resources and so on to strengthen our
friendship with Him.
1. From the following scriptures, discuss sacrifice as an ingredient for
friendship. Ruth 1:6-18; 1 Sam. 20:30-33; Jn. 15:13; Rom. 15:1-3; 1 Cor.
13:4-7; 2 Cor. 5:14; 12:15.
2. How can we cultivate the virtue of sacrifice in our friendships from the
following scriptures? Rom. 12:10; Gal. 2:20, 21; 6:9; Phil. 2:3-8; 1 Jn.
4:7-12, 18.
CONCLUSION
The depth of any friendship is in the measure of sacrifice that goes into it.
This study emphasised ways and manner of sacrificing in order to build
and sustain our friendship with God and with each other.
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STUDY EIGHT:
TOPIC: WRONG CONCEPTS ABOUT OUR FRIENDSHIP WITH
GOD
TEXTS: Gen. 19:13-20; Mal. 1:6-8; Lk. 15: 11-20; Jn. 11:18-28, 32
MEMORY VERSE: You're cheating on God. If all you want is your
own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up
enemies of God and his way. Jas. 4:4 (MSG)
INTRODUCTION
Familiarity, it is said, breeds contempt. Our relationship with God
sometimes may snowball into our taking God for granted in a number of
ways if we do not consciously and deliberately check ourselves. In our
walk with him, we may find that we are beginning to regard his word, his
presence, his fellowship and friendship as a right rather than regard them
as a privilege.
In this study, we shall discuss the aforementioned subject matter, with a
view to ensuring that we keep a proper relationship with God, and prevent
it from nose-diving into taking him for granted.
1. From the following scriptures, discuss some wrong concepts about our
friendship with God. Gen. 19:13-20; Num. 22:12-22; 1 Sam. 15: 13-15;
Mal. 1:6-8; Lk. 15:11-20; Jn. 11:18-28, 32; Jas. 4:4.
2. How do we guard against taking our friendship with God for granted?
Deut. 32:15-20; 1 Sam. 15:17-19, 22,23; Prov. 3:5-8; 4:23-27; 23:1-4; Isa.
66:2; Matt. 16:21-23.
CONCLUSION
Having seen that we can take our friendship with God for granted in our
day to day living, may we watch our steps as well as guard our hearts so
as not to fall into the pitfalls the men we have studied fell into in their
relationship with God.
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STUDY NINE:
TOPIC: RESTORING FRIENDSHIP WITH GOD
TEXTS: Gen. 33:1-15; Isa. 1:18-26; Rev. 2:1-5
MEMORY VERSE: Come now, let us reason together, saith the Lord:
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they
be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. Isa. 1:18
INTRODUCTION
Occasionally, friendship between two people gets sour. Similarly, our
relationship with God, gets sour whenever we stray from him. When this
happens, there is the need to take urgent and deliberate steps to address
the issue(s) that caused the unhealthy situation. The longer it takes to
address the issue(s), the more the relationship is threatened. If steps are
not taken at all, the friendship may collapse. In this study, we shall be
looking at restoring friendship with God.
1. Discuss some things that may make our friendship with God sour.
Num. 11:1-6; 12:1-10; 25:1-3; 2 Sam. 11:5-17; Acts 5:1-9; Gal. 5:19-21;
Heb. 4:1-7; 10:35-38.
2. Discuss from these scriptures how we can restore our friendship with
God. Num. 25:6-11; 2 Sam. 12:1-13; Job 22:21-25(Msg); Isa. 1:18-20; 1
Jn. 1:9.
CONCLUSION
The Lord is willing to forgive us and continue with us as friends,
irrespective of the things we have done. Let us not therefore delay to
come to him and ask for forgiveness.
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STUDY TEN:
TOPIC: BENEFITS OF FRIENDSHIP WITH GOD
TEXTS: Gen. 18:16-21; Jn. 15:1-16
MEMORY VERSE: Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant
knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all
things that I have heard of my father I have made known unto you. Jn.
15:15
INTRODUCTION
Just as every friendship has benefits, in the same way our friendship with
God is not in vain. If we accept the hand of friendship he offers, we stand
to gain a lot.
In this study, we shall be looking at some of the benefits of our friendship
with God.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
1. Identify and discuss the benefits of friendship with God from the
following scriptures: Gen. 18:17-19; 2 Kgs. 6:15-17; Ps. 1:1-3; 23:1-6;
Isa. 26:3; Matt. 5:1-3; 1 Cor. 2:9-12; Jn. 15:13-16.
2. Share the benefits you have enjoyed in your friendship with God.
CONCLUSION
From this study, the benefits of our friendship with God are innumerable.
May we avail ourselves of the opportunity of this friendship so as to
continually enjoy the benefits thereof.
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STUDY ELEVEN
TOPIC: GOOD WORKS AND WHAT IT ENTAILS
TEXTS: Matt. 5:16; Acts 9:36-39; Tit. 2:7-15
MEMORY VERSE: How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy
Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that
were oppressed of the devil;
for God was with him. Acts 10:38
INTRODUCTION
Good works is any act of kindness, generosity, hospitality etc. to people
we come across in life. It also involves reaching out to people through
counseling, prayer, preaching and teaching the word of God. Every
believer is expected to be a pattern of good works. This is the focus of this
study.
1. What does good works entail from the following scriptures? Matt. 5:16;
Mk. 14:3-6; Jn. 14:10; Acts 9:36-39; 1 Cor. 13:3; Phil. 2:13-16; 1 Tim.
2:8-10; 6:17-19;
2 Tim. 3:16, 17; Tit. 2:7-14; Heb. 10:24, 25.
2. What can we learn from the following examples of good works? 2 Kgs.
4:9-11; Jn. 4:7-24; Lk. 10:30-37;
Phm. 9-19.
CONCLUSION
Good works enable others experience God’s love through us. As our Lord
Jesus was anointed and went about doing good, may we all abound in
good works to the glory of God the father.
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STUDY TWELVE
TOPIC: CO-LABOURERS WITH GOD
TEXTS: Gen. 2:15; Jer. 51:20-23; 2 Cor. 6:1-10
MEMORY VERSE: For we are labourers together with God: ye are
God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. 1 Cor. 3:9
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of God is that man would partner with Him in taking charge
of His creation and enjoy intimacy with Him. For the believer, this is a
privilege that the devil has continued to envy and fight. However, for
God’s kingdom and will to be established continually on earth, He needs
our hands, feet, mouth and material possession for the accomplishment of
his purpose: to deliver mankind from oppression and influence of the
devil, stand in the gap, challenge wickedness, institute justice, preach the
good news, and declare His sovereignty. In this study we shall focus on
different dimensions of our partnership with God.
1. Discuss what co-labouring with God entails from the following
scriptures: Gen. 18:17–32; Ex. 3:7–10; Num. 25:6–11; 1 Sam. 3:1–10;
17:44–51; Dan. 3:17–30; Matt. 3:1–6; 10:5-8; Acts 14:21-23; 16:6- 10;
Phil. 4:14-19; Col. 4:12.
2. What are some of the effects of not co-labouring with God? Isa. 3:1–5;
59:14–16; Eze. 22:29–31; 33:1–9;
Rom. 10:14, 15.
CONCLUSION
It is clear from this study that God is represented and his interest executed
on earth through His partnership with men. It is a great privilege to be
used of God to accomplish His purposes. May we be faithful in co-
labouring with God.
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STUDY THIRTEEN
TOPIC: EQUIPPED FOR GOOD WORKS
TEXTS: Acts 9:36-39; Eph. 2:1-10; 2 Tim. 3:14-17.
MEMORY VERSES: All scriptures is given by inspiration of God, and
is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished
unto all good works. 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
INTRODUCTION
To equip (furnish) is to prepare with a skill or to supply with whatever is
necessarily efficient for good works. The bible makes us to understand
that as children of God, we have been equipped for good works. God
therefore expects each of us to be engaged in good works.
In this study, we shall examine how God equips us, the goal or purpose of
our equipment and some contrary motives for doing good works which
we must avoid.
1. Discuss from, the following scriptures how God equips us for good
works: Prov. 4:7; Mk. 3:14, 15; Acts 1:8; Eph. 2:1-10; 2 Cor. 9:10,11;
1Tim. 6:17-19; 2 Tim. 3:14-17.
2. What should be our motive for doing good works? Matt. 5:16; Lk.
6:35; 2 Cor. 9:102-14; Tit. 3:8, 14; 1 Pet. 2:12.
3. Discuss some contrary motives for doing good works. Matt. 6:1; 2 Cor.
10:12; Gal. 5:26; Phil. 1:15.
CONCLUSION
As believers in Christ, we have been equipped for good works with the
aim of bringing glory to God and not ourselves. May we therefore
comply.
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STUDY FOURTEEN
TOPIC: GOD’S COMPREHENSIVE EQUIPMENT I:
DISCIPSLESHIP
TEXTS: Ex. 18:7-27; Mk. 3:13-15; Acts 18:24-28
MEMORY VERSE: And he ordained twelve, that they should be with
him, and that he might send them forth to preach. Mk. 3:14
INTRODUCTION
To equip a person means to empower or furnish him to enable him
perform a particular purpose. God has called every child of His to partner
with Him in the work of His kingdom. However, no man in himself is
sufficient for this onerous task, hence the need to be equipped by God.
Discipleship is one of the ways God equips a man to fit into His divine
purpose and work effectively for Him. Many believers are ineffective in
life and ministry because of the lack of this equipment. This study focuses
on discipleship as God’s comprehensive equipment for life and ministry
and how we can maximize it.
1. From the following scriptures, discuss discipleship as God’s
comprehensive equipment for life and ministry. Ex. 18:7-27; Josh. 1:1-3;
2 Kgs. 2:7-15; Mk. 3:13-15; Lk. 11:1-4; Acts 4:13-20; 18:24-28; 2 Tim.
2:2; 3:14, 15.
2. From these scriptures, discuss how a believer can maximize the process
of discipleship in his life: 2 Kgs. 2:7–15; Ps. 42:1, 2; Prov. 3:5–7; Lk.
10:1, 17; Jn. 6:65–69; 1 Cor. 11:1; 2 Cor. 10:12; Heb. 12:2, 3.
CONCLUSION
God does not expect us to fulfill his purpose with being adequately
equipped. Let us maximize the discipleship opportunity that God brings
our way.
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STUDY FIFTEEN:
TOPIC: GOD’S COMPREHENSIVE EQUIPMENT II: THE WORD
AND PRAYER
TEXTS: Acts 4:23-33; Jn. 1:1-3, 14; 2 Tim. 3:14-17; Jas. 1:21-25
MEMORY VERSES: All scriptures is given by inspiration of God, and
is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished
unto all good works. 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
INTRODUCTION
In the last study, discipleship was considered as one of the tools God uses
to equip believers for good works. In like manner God uses His word and
prayers to equip us for the fulfillment of His purposes.
This study focuses on the word of God and prayer as other comprehensive
equipment of believers unto good works. As we study, may our hearts be
enlightened.
1. Discuss God’s word and prayer as some of His tools for furnishing
believers for good works. Ps. 119:9, 11, 105; Jer. 20:9; Dan. 6:10, 11; Lk.
22:39-46; Jn. 6:63; 8:31, 32; Acts 4:24-26,31; 20:32; 2 Tim. 3:14-17;
Heb. 4:12, 13; 1 Jn 1:1-3; Jude 20.
2. From these scriptures, how can we benefit maximally from God’s word
and prayer? Josh. 1:8; Job 23:12; Jer. 15:16; Lk. 18:1; Eph. 6:18; Jas. 1:5,
6, 21-25; 5:16-18;1 Pet. 2:2.
CONCLUSION
This study underscores the significance of God’s word and prayer in
equipping believers unto good works. The word of God trains,
encourages, rebukes, corrects and instructs believers for good works and
effective, fervent prayer accomplishes much. May we submit our lives to
be equipped by God’s word and prayer.
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STUDY SIXTEEN:
TOPIC: EQUIPPING THROUGH FELLOWSHIP
TEXTS: Ps. 122:1; Acts 2:41-47; Heb. 10:23-25
MEMORY VERSE: That which we have seen and heard declare we unto
you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is
with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 1 Jn. 1:3
INTRODUCTION
Fellowship means companionship or association of people having a
common interest, goal or aim. As believers who share a common faith,
God desires that we company with one another, receive the same spiritual
nourishments and be united in our pursuit of His divine mandate. The
fellowship we share is for the mutual benefit of every member, through it
members are strengthened and empowered to manifest the true identity of
Christ. In this study we shall consider how God equips His church
through fellowship.
1. From the following scriptures discuss equipping through fellowship:
Neh. 8:1-6,9,10; Acts 2:1-8, 41-47; 4:23-33; 18:22-28; Heb. 10:23-25;
Jas. 5:14-16; 1 Pet. 4:10-14; 1 Jn. 1:1-7.
2. Why is equipping through fellowship important in our Christian walk?
(Share your own experience).
CONCLUSION
We have seen from this study that God teaches and builds His children
through their association one with another. May we take advantage of the
opportunity God grants us to be equipped through fellowship.
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STUDY SEVENTEEN:
TOPIC: ONE SPIRIT, DIFFERENT GIFTS
TEXTS: Rom. 12:1-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-14, 28
MEMORY VERSE: Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same
Spirit. Rom. 12:4
INTRODUCTION
The Christian calling is a call to service and to be able to do that
effectively, God equips us with spiritual gifts. These gifts are given to us
by His Spirit for the common good of His church. He therefore expects us
to discover our individual gifts, appreciate each other’s gifts and use our
gifts in harmony with one another and not in strife and competition.
This study focuses on the need to understand the importance of spiritual
gifts in doing good works, the need to desire spiritual gifts and for those
of us who have identified ours to fan them to flame.
1. What do you understand by “one Spirit, different gifts”?
2. Identify and discuss the various spiritual gifts listed in these scriptures:
Rom. 12:6-8 (MSG); 1 Cor. 12:8-12, 28; Eph. 4:11-13
3. Discuss from these scriptures why we are to value and appreciate our
gifts: Matt. 25:14-30; Rom. 12:1-6; 1 Cor. 12:4-7, 12-23; Eph. 4:8-13; 2
Tim. 1:6-9
CONCLUSION
Spiritual gifts are given to us for good works, each of us must therefore,
prayerfully discover our gifts and put them to use for the profit of the
Church. We must also value and appreciate our gifts.
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STUDY EIGHTEEN:
TOPIC: COMMITMENT TO WORK
TEXTS: Gen. 39:1-6; Matt. 25:14-30; Jn. 9:4; Col. 3:22-25
MEMORY VERSE: Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy
might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in
the grave, whither thou goest. Eccl. 9:10
INTRODUCTION
Commitment is a deliberate, conscious, and personal decision to be
diligent or to be involved in an obligation despite all odds. The lack of
commitment has affected productivity in both the Church and the secular
world. There is a need therefore for us to be devoted to any task or
assignment given to us anywhere we find ourselves as children of God.
In this study, we shall look at what commitment to work entails.
1. What do you understand by commitment to work?
2. Discuss commitment to work from the following scriptures. Gen. 39:1-
6; 1 Sam. 16:18-23; Eccl. 9:10; 11:1-6; Prov. 22:29; Matt. 24:45-51;
25:14-30; Jn. 9:4; 1 Cor. 2:10223-15; Col. 3:22-25.
3. What are some consequences of lack of commitment to work? Prov.
6:4-11; Matt. 24:45-51.
CONCLUSION
We have seen from this study that, commitment is key to any meaningful
achievement. Let us therefore diligently renew our commitment to our
secular and spiritual work so as to honour our God. “And whatsoever ye
do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men”. Col. 3:23
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STUDY NINETEEN:
TOPIC: SUSTAINING THE GOOD WORKS
TEXTS: 2 Cor. 11:24-31; Eph. 6:6-8; Tit. 3:1-8, 14
MEMORY VERSE: This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that
thou affirm constantly, that they which believed in God might be careful
to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
Tit. 3:8
INTRODUCTION
God called and equipped us for good works. Unfortunately, sometimes we
become weary or discouraged and quit or give up. God, however, expects
us to sustain the good works despite the weariness or discouragements
that we face from time to time.
In this study, we shall consider encouragements and admonitions for
sustaining good works.
1. Discuss from the following scriptures, some encouragements and
admonitions to sustaining good works? Eccl. 9:10; Matt. 16:27; Rom. 2:7;
1 Cor. 3:8; 2 Cor. 4:15-17; Gal. 6:9, 10; Eph. 6:6-8; Tit. 3:1-8, 14; Heb.
12:1-3; 1 Pet. 5:8-10(LB).
2. What are some challenges and discouragements to sustaining good
works? Mk. 3:2; Acts 13:50; 2 Cor. 11:24-31; Gal. 6:9.
CONCLUSION
God expects us to sustain our good works despite the challenges or the
discouragements that we may face. Let us therefore continue in doing
good works and may his grace be sufficient unto us.
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STUDY TWENTY:
TOPICC: CHALLENGES TO BEING EFFECTIVE IN OUR
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
TEXTS: Prov. 6:6-11; Matt. 6:25-34; 1 Cor. 4:10-13
MEMORY VERSES: How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? When wilt
thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little
folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that
travelleth, and thy want as an armed man. Prov. 6: 9-11
INTRODUCTION
Challenges are factors that militate against carrying out our work or duties
effectively. The world we live in is full of distractions ranging from
personal, family, and others. This has limited us from given our best in
doing our work. Despite these challenges, God expects us to be
committed in our work.
In this study, we shall consider some challenges and how to remain
focused on whatever we do.
1. From the following scriptures, identify and discuss challenges that limit
us from being effective in duties. Neh. 4:1, 7, 8; Hos. 4:6; Matt. 6:25-34;
2 Tim. 1:7; 1 Jn. 2:15-17 (LB).
2. What other challenges do we face in our work?
3. How can we overcome these challenges from the following scriptures?
Neh. 4:9; 6:2-9; Jn. 16:33; Rom. 8:28; 1 Cor. 15:57, 58; 2 Cor. 1:8, 10;
Eph. 6:16-18; Heb. 3:12-14; Jas. 5:7-9; 2 Pet. 3:17, 18; 1 Jn. 5:4, 5.
CONCLUSION
Challenges are bound to come our way as long as we discharge our duties
and responsibilities. However, we must not allow these challenges to
hinder us.
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STUDY TWENTY-ONE:
TOPIC: REWARDS FOR GOOD WORKS
TEXTS: Ex. 1:15-21; Num. 25:1-13; Matt. 25:14-30
MEMORY VERSE: Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the
proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Gal. 6:9 (NIV)
INTRODUCTION
A reward is something given in recognition of one’s service, effort, or
achievement. Every acceptable service unto God attracts reward. He is not
ignorant of our good works; he rewards appropriately and duly in
accordance with His will. In this study, we shall be looking at some
rewards for good works.
1. What do you understand by good works?
2. Discuss rewards of good works from the following scriptures: Ex. 1:15-
21; Num. 25:1-13; 2 Kgs. 4:8-17; Matt. 19:27-29; 25:14-30; Mk. 9:41;
Acts 9:36-42; 1 Cor. 9:16-18; Heb. 6:10; 1 Pet. 5:2-4.
CONCLUSION
God saved us to do good works, which implies that doing good works for
a believer is an obligation. God rewards believers who engage in good
works. “Therefore, cast not away your confidence which has great reward,
for you have need of patience that after you have done the will of God,
you might obtain the promise”-Hebrews 10:35, 36.
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STUDY TWENTY-TWO:
TOPIC: THE HARVEST IS RIPE
TEXTS: Matt. 28:19-20; Lk. 10:1, 2; 2 Tim. 4:1-5
MEMORY VERSE: Say not ye, There are yet four months, and them
cometh harvest? Behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on
the fields; for they are white already to harvest. Jn. 4:35
INTRODUCTION
Harvest is the gathering of ripe crops from the field in the same vein;
souls of men are likened to crops that are ripe for harvest. The Lord Jesus
has commissioned us to bring in the harvest. We should be aware of the
urgency of this task and make every effort to labour in this harvest. May
the Lord grant us understanding as we study.
1. From the following scriptures discuss the urgency of the harvest: Eccl.
3:1; Matt. 9:37, 38; 28:19, 20; Lk. 10:1, 2; Jn. 4:35; Acts 8:25-27; 10:23,
24, 34-43; Rom. 10:13-15; Eph. 5:15-17; 2 Tim. 4:1-5.
2. In the light of the above what should be our response to this ripe
harvest? Matt. 28:19, 20; Lk. 10:1, 2; Acts. 1:8; 10:23, 24, 34-43; 1 Cor.
9: 16-27.
3. Discuss the consequences of not gathering the harvest. Prov. 10:5;
Rom. 10:13-15; 1 Cor. 9:16.
CONCLUSION
Having seen that the harvest indeed is ripe, we should respond to God’s
call as labourers and make every effort to work in this consciousness.
May we find grace to respond appropriately.
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STUDY TWENTY-THREE:
TOPIC: GOD’S PURPOSE FOR MARRIAGE
TEXTS: Gen. 1:26-28; 2:21-25; Mal. 2:15; Matt. 19:4-6
MEMORY VERSE: And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be
fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have
dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over
every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Gen. 1:28
INTRODUCTION
God ordained marriage and designed it to achieve his purpose. Therefore,
understanding His purposes for marriage will help prepare God’s people
enjoy their family life and equip them to face challenges.
1 Discuss from the following scriptures God’s purpose for marriage. Gen.
1:26-28; 2:18, 23-25; Eccl. 4:9-12; Mal. 2:15; Eph. 5:21-33
2 Discuss some of the challenges to fulfilling God’s purpose for marriage
and how to overcome them. Prov. 5:20; Matt. 19:4-9; Rom.
1:21,22,26,27; 1 Cor. 7:1-11; Eph. 6:11, 12
CONCLUSION
God’s purpose for marriage includes: reflect God’s image, mutually
complement one another and multiply a godly heritage. When we commit
ourselves to fulfilling these purposes, we enjoy our marriages. May our
marriages fulfill God’s design.
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STUDY TWENTY - FOUR:

A TOPIC: CHOOSING LIFE PARTNER
TEXTS: Gen. 2:20-23; Prov. 3:5-7; 2 Cor. 6:14-16; Phil. 4:6 - 7
MEMORY VERSE: He who finds a wife finds what is good and
receives favor from the LORD. Prov. 18:22 (NIV)
INTRODUCTION
God delights in leading his children in the right path of life. As a believer
builds his relationship with the Lord, he gets to know him better. God still
instructs and guides to ensure that each believer makes the right choice in
marriage.
1. Discuss some principles from the following scriptures in choosing a life
partner. Gen. 2:20-23; Prov. 3:5-7; 15:22; Jn. 16:13; 2 Cor. 6:14-16; Phil.
4:6, 7; Jas. 1:5, 6
2. What other factors could be considered in the choice of a life partner?
3. Share briefly how you chose your partner.
CONCLUSION
A good relationship with Jesus is invaluable in making the right choice of
a life partner, A life of trust, prayer, built on God’s word and seeking
godly counsel is sure to make it a lot easier.
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STUDY TWENTY - FIVE

TOPIC: UNITY OF PURPOSE IN THE FAMILY
TEXTS: Ex. 2:1-10; Judg. 13:1-13; Acts 18:24-26
MEMORY VERSE: Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
Amos 3:3
INTRODUCTION
The family unit provides a divine platform of unity in achieving God’s
purposes. Examples abound in scripture of families that achieved the
purpose of God in their life and ministry.
1. Discuss unity of purpose in the family. Ex. 2:1-10; 2 Kgs. 4:8-11; Judg.
13:1-13; Eccl 4:9-12; Isa. 8:18; Matt. 1:18-21; 2:13,14: Acts 18:24-26;
Phil. 2:1- 5.
2. Discuss the things that militate against the unity of purpose in the
family and how to overcome them.
CONCLUSION
Unity of purpose in the family enhances the fulfillment of God’s purpose.
May we make every effort to maintain the unity of purpose in our
families.
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STUDY TWENTY- SIX:

TOPIC: ESTABLISHING FAMILY GOALS
TEXTS: Deut. 6:6-9; Josh. 24:15; Prov. 22:6; Jer. 35:1-14
MEMORY VERSE: But they said, we will drink no wine: for Jonadab
the son of Rechab our father commanded us, saying, Ye shall drink no
wine, neither ye, nor your sons forever. Jer. 35:6
INTRODUCTION
A goal is a set target for which effort is made to achieve. God expects
parents to set godly goals for their families. These goals could vary from
family to family, but the overall purpose is to glorify the Lord. These
goals may be short-term, long-term or perpetuated from one generation to
another. This is the focus of this study.
1. Discuss various goals that could be established by a family?
2. What are the lessons from the following scriptures in setting family
goals? Deut. 6:6-9; Josh. 24:15;1 Sam. 1:21-28; Prov. 22:6; Jer. 35:1-14;
Hab. 2:2,3; 2 Tim 1:5.
3. Discuss how family members can encourage each other in establishing
family goals.
CONCLUSION
Family members have the responsibility of setting clear goals to achieve
the purpose of God for their lives. May God help us to set and accomplish
these goals in our families.
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STUDY TWENTY- SEVEN

TOPIC: THE PLACE OF THE FAMILY ALTAR
TEXTS: Deut. 11:18-21; Job 1:1-5; Ps. 78:3-8; 95:1-7
MEMORY VERSES: Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your
heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they
may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your
children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when
thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
Deut. 11:18, 19
INTRODUCTION
Family altar is when members of a family come together to fellowship
with God and with one another consistently. It is a period of prayer,
worship, admonition and teaching of the word of God.
It is very necessary that every member of the family is committed in
doing this. May God grant us understanding as we study.
1. Discuss what family altar entails from the following scriptures: Gen.
35:1-7; Deut. 4:9. 10; 11:18-21; Josh. 1:8; Job 1:1-5; Ps. 78:3-7; 95:1-7; 1
Tim. 2:1-4; 2 Tim. 3:15-17; Jas. 5:16.
2. Give practical suggestions that would enhance family devotion.
CONCLUSION
The place of the family altar cannot be overemphasized in the home.
Hence, we must be deliberate, committed, prayerful and purposeful when
we meet together in fellowship.
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STUDY TWENTY - EIGHT

TOPIC: ESTABLISHING FAMILY TIES
TEXTS: Gen. 50:15-21; Matt. 18:15-22; Rom. 12:10
MEMORY VERSE: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for
brethren to dwell together in unity! Ps. 133:1
INTRODUCTION
Ties are connections people have with one another or a place.
Establishing family ties therefore, is creating a long-lasting connection
with family members.
Establishing family ties may be demanding, however, God has revealed to
us in His word, the necessity and the ways of doing so. This is the focus
of this study.
1. What are some necessary factors in establishing family ties from the
following scriptures? Gen. 50:16, 17; 1 Sam. 12:23; Job 1:4, 5; Matt.
18:15-22; Rom. 12:10; Gal. 6:1, 2; Col. 3:13; Jas. 5:16; 1 Pet. 3:8-11.
2. Discuss some challenges to developing family ties and how to
overcome them. Gen. 4:1-9; 25:28; Lk. 12:13; Jas. 3:14-18.
CONCLUSION
Establishing family ties is God’s will. Let us therefore, ensure that our
family ties are not broken. May His grace be sufficient unto us.
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STUDY TWENTY NINE:

TOPIC: UNDERSTANDING WHO YOU ARE
TEXTS: Gen. 1:27; 2 Cor. 5:15-17; Eph. 2:4-10; 1 Pet. 2:9, 10
MEMORY VERSE: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new
creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2
Cor. 5:17
INTRODUCTION
Ignorance is said to be a disease while knowledge on the other hand is
said to be power. The knowledge of God and understanding who we are
in Christ set us free from bondage and prevent the devil from taking
advantage of us. Understanding who you are in Christ therefore, is
paramount to your enjoying the fullness of life Jesus offers.
As we study, may the Lord illuminate our minds to understand who we
are in Christ.
1. On what basis do people often take the bearing of who they are in life?
2. From the following scriptures, discuss who we are in Christ: Gen. 1:27;
Rom. 8:1, 2; 1 Cor. 2:14-16; 2 Cor. 5:15-17; Gal. 2:20; Eph. 2:4-10; 1 Pet.
2:4, 5, 9, 10.
CONCLUSION
Understanding who we are in Christ opens a world of opportunities and
untold blessings for us. May we truly walk in the understanding of who
we are in Christ. Amen!
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STUDY THIRTY:
TOPIC: DEVELOPING AND MAINTAINING A GOOD
CHARACTER
TEXTS: Deut. 8:11-18; Gal. 5:22-26; 2 Pet. 1:5-9
MEMORY VERSES: More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that
suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character
produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been
poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Rom. 5:3-5
(ESV)
INTRODUCTION
A good character is the accumulation and expression of good qualities that makes a
person stand out. We are not born into this world with fixed habits neither do we
inherit a noble character. As children of God therefore, we have the privilege of
choosing which way of life to follow and which habits to form.
This study is focused on some of the ways we can develop and maintain a good
character, and why it is necessary to do so.
1. Discuss some of the ways of developing and maintaining a good character. Deut.
8:11-18; Prov. 28:6; Rom. 5:3-5; 1 Cor. 9:24-27; 15:33; Gal. 5:22-26; Phil. 4:8, 9;
Col. 3:1-5, 12 17; 1 Tim. 6:6-12; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; 2 Pet. 1:5-9.
2. Why is it necessary to develop and maintain a good character from the following
scriptures? 1 Sam. 12:3-5; Dan. 6:1-5; Prov. 22:1; Matt. 5:16; Eph. 2:10; Heb. 12:7-
11; 1 Pet. 5:5, 6.
CONCLUSION
Developing and maintaining a good character is necessary if we must glorify God,
and make impact in our day to day living in our environment. May the Lord make us
men and women of good character.
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STUDY THIRTY- ONE

TOPIC: PERSONAL DISCIPLINE
TEXTS: Gen. 39:1-9; Dan. 1:1-8; Phil. 3:1-15
MEMORY VERSE: He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city
that is broken down, and without walls. Prov. 25:28
INTRODUCTION
Personal discipline which is also referred to as self-mastery is simply
exercising power over self. It is a virtue that was exhibited by people who
walked with God successfully, no wonder the bible says, “He that hath no
rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without
wall” Prov. 25:28.
Each of us therefore must strive to develop this virtue, so that the flesh
and its desires will not impede our walk with the Lord. This is the focus
of this study.
1. Discuss from the following scriptures how the following characters
demonstrated personal discipline? Gen. 39:1-9; 1 Sam. 12:1-4; Dan. 1:1-
8; Phil. 3:1-15.
2. How can we develop personal discipline? Josh. 1:8; Matt. 16:24; Jn.
15:1-7; Rom. 8:13; 1 Cor. 9:2-27; Gal. 5:16; 2 Tim. 2:3-5; 1 Pet. 4:7, 8.
CONCLUSION
Personal discipline is important in our walk with God. Let us cultivate the
habit of personal discipline in meditation, mortifying the deeds of the
flesh and walking in the spirit. May the Lord help us to be doers and not
forgetful hearers.
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STUDY THIRTY –TWO:

TOPIC: EXAMINE YOURSELF
TEXTS: Ps. 26:1, 2; 1 Cor. 11:28-32; 2 Cor. 13:5
MEMORY VERSE: Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your
own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye
be reprobates? 2 Cor. 13:5
INTRODUCTION
To examine means to inspect carefully or critically, to check the health or condition
of something or someone. It also connotes to interrogate.
To examine oneself therefore, demands frankness, honesty and sincerity with
oneself. It requires that a Christian genuinely brings himself under the search light of
the Holy Spirit to critically check how he is faring in a holistic manner. The aim is
for him to make amends as the Lord, through the Holy Spirit, x-rays his thoughts,
actions, inactions and his life to him.
As we study, may we be willing to learn and develop the attitude of regular
examining ourselves in the light of his word, in Jesus name.
1. From the following scriptures, discuss why one should examine oneself and of
what importance is it? Chron. 25:1, 2; Prov. 28:13; Lk. 10:17-20; 1 Cor. 10:12;
11:28-32; 2 Cor. 13:5; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
2. What are the challenges to examining oneself? Gen. 3:9-13; 1 Sam. 15:10-15; Lk.
10:25-29; Jas. 5:16.
3. What is the place of God, the Word and the Holy Spirit in examining oneself? Ps.
26:1, 2; Jn. 15:4, 5; Rom. 8:26, 27; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
CONCLUSION
Seeing how crucial it is for us to examine ourselves, may we regularly keep short
accounts of our daily living as we honestly and freely come before God.
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STUDY THIRTY- THREE

TOPIC: LIVING CIRCUMSPECTLY
TEXTS: 1 Chron. 12:32; Matt. 25:1-13; Eph. 5: 1-20
MEMORY VERSES: See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools,
but as wise. Redeeming the time because the days are evil. Eph. 5:15, 16
INTRODUCTION
The believer lives in a world that is full of evil. Because of this, he is
pressured on every side to think and act like the people of the world.
However, he has been admonished by the word of God to be watchful,
thoughtful and to cautiously conduct himself so as not to be ensnared by
the devices of the devil. This study focuses on living circumspectly.
1. Discuss what it means to live circumspectly from the following
scriptures: 1 Sam. 18:14-16; 1 Chron. 12:32; Prov. 22:29; 31:10-27; Eccl.
12:1-9; Matt. 25:1-13; Eph. 5:15-20.
2. What are the contemporary challenges to living circumspectly?
CONCLUSION
Making the best of every opportunity that comes our way to advance the
Kingdom of God is a task that a believer should exploit with the whole of
his heart. May God help us not to be fools, but wise.
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STUDY THIRTY - FOUR

TOPIC: SUSTAINING A GODLY DISPOSITION IN A PERVERSE
ENVIRONMENT
TEXTS: Gen. 39:1-23; 2 Pet. 1:1-11
MEMORY VERSE: But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not
defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine
which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that
he might not defile himself. Dan. 1:8
INTRODUCTION
Sustaining a godly disposition is maintaining a righteous stand in a
perverse environment. Today we live in a permissive society and are
confronted by what people do or say in our places of assignments; what
we see and watch on the television and the internet and so on. Strength of
mind is needed by every Christian to stay alive spiritually in order to
preserve his faith in this perverse generation.
The focus of this study therefore, is how a Christian can sustain a godly
disposition in a perverse environment.
1. How did these men sustain godly disposition in the environment they
found themselves? Gen. 39:1-23; Dan. 1:3-20; 3:14-23; 6:6-10; Acts 5:27-
29; 20:17-24; Phil. 1:12-19;
2. How can we sustain a godly disposition in our perverse environment?
Rom. 6:8-14; Col. 3:15-17; Phil. 2:12-16; 4:4-9; 1 Thess. 5:15-22; 2 Tim.
2:15, 16, 19; 2 Pet. 1:3-11.
CONCLUSION
There are many challenges to our faith resulting from the perverse
environment that we live in. But if we make God the center and basis of
our lives, we can sustain a godly disposition regardless of life’s
circumstances. May God grant us the enabling grace to stand in this
perverse world.
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STUDY THIRTY - FIVE

TOPIC: FAITHFUL TO THE END
TEXTS: Job 1:13-22; Acts 20:22-24; Rev. 2:8-10
MEMORY VERSE: Fear none of those things which thou shall suffer;
behold the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried;
and ye shall have tribulation ten days; be thou faithful unto death and I
will give thee a crown of life. Rev. 2:10
INTRODUCTION
Faithful means to be loyal and steadfast in following. God’s command to
His children is to remain faithful to the end no matter what may come
their way. The Bible gives us a complete description of the treatment we
might expect to receive as Christians: sometimes good at other times bad.
Yet, through it all we are encouraged to be faithful to the end. May the
Lord help our hearts as we study together.
1. Discuss what it implies to be faithful to the end from these scriptures:
Job 1:13-22; Dan. 3:13-18; 6:4-10; Acts 5:25-29, 40-42; 7:54-60; 20:22-
24; 21:10-14; 2 Cor. 11:21-30; Heb. 11:24-27.
2. Discuss some benefits of being faithful to the end. Gen. 39:20-23;
41:41-44; Job 42:10-17; Dan. 3:28-30; Heb. 11:32-40; Rev. 2:8-10.
CONCLUSION
To be faithful to the end requires loyalty and steadfastness even in the
face of danger and death. May we be found faithful to the end.
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STUDY THIRTY - SIX

TOPIC: BENEFITS OF TAKING HEED
TEXTS: Deut. 28:1-14; Mk. 13:3-11; 1 Cor. 3:10-15
MEMORY VERSE: Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take
heed lest he fall. 1 Cor. 10:12
INTRODUCTION
The expression "take heed" means to listen and pay close attention. The
Lord calls our attention to what we do, hear or say using these words,
because there are dire consequences if we don’t while there are wonderful
benefits if we do. This study focuses on the benefits of taking heed.
1. Discuss some of the benefits that may accrue to us if we take heed:
Deut. 28:1-14; Jer. 7:22, 23; Matt. 7:24-27; Mk. 4:22-25; 13:3-11; Lk.
11:34-36; 1 Cor. 3:10-15; 1 Tim. 4:13-16.
2. Discuss from your experience some benefits of taking heed to God's
instruction.
CONCLUSION
The benefits that accrue to us from taking heed include accomplishment
of God's purpose for our lives and eternal blessedness. May we endeavour
to take heed to ourselves.
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STUDY THIRTY - SEVEN

TOPIC: CONSEQUENCES OF NOT TAKING HEED
TEXTS: 1 Sam. 15:18-29; 2 Sam. 12:7-15; Acts 5:1-10
MEMORY VERSE: He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck,
shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy. Prov. 29:1
INTRODUCTION
God expects man to take heed, that is, to pay careful attention, to mind, to
observe and to obey his word. Failure to do so attracts dire consequences.
In this study, we shall discuss some consequences of not taking heed.
1. From the following scriptures, discuss some consequences of not taking
heed: Gen. 3:15-19; 4:9-15; Judg. 16:4-21; 1 Sam. 4:11-22; 15:10, 11, 24-
28; Dan. 4:28-33; Matt. 7:21-23; 25:24-30; Lk. 12:13-21; Acts 5:1-10;
Phil. 3:17-19.
2. Discuss contemporary or personal experience of not taking heed.
CONCLUSION
This study has shown us some dire consequences of not taking heed. We
should therefore strive to take heed unto God’s instructions despite all
odds. May God strengthen us to stand firm.
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STUDY THIRTY EIGHT

TOPIC: WALKING IN THE LIGHT
TEXTS: Matt. 5:14-16; Jn. 1:1-5; Eph. 5:1-21
MEMORY VERSE: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we
have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son
cleanseth us from all sin. 1 Jn. 1:7
INTRODUCTION
Light illuminates, directs, enlivens and strengthens. Where there is light,
there is visibility and productivity. The Bible describes both Jesus and His
followers as the light of the world. Walking in the light therefore is
synonymous with walking worthy of the Lord; maintaining the standard
of conduct and commands that Jesus has given us in order to affect our
world. This study focuses on the significance of walking in the light.
1. Discuss the significance of walking in the light from the following
scriptures: Gen. 39:1-9; Num. 13:30; 14:6-9; Matt. 5:14-16; Lk. 10:25-37;
Jn. 1:1-5; 8:12; 9:4, 5; Eph. 4:1-3; 5:1-21; 1Jn. 1:5-7; 2:8-11.
2. What are some of the hindrances to walking in the light in our
contemporary times?
CONCLUSION
Walking in the light is a call unto obeying God and directing men to His
kingdom. It attracts benefits now and in time to come. May we be bold to
bear the light and to walk in it.
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STUDY THIRTY NINE

TOPIC: ARE THE PERILOUS TIMES HERE?
READ II TIMOTHY 3:1 TO 5 - II TIMOTHY 4:1 TO 5 - ROMANS 9:30 TO 10:4
II CORINTHIANS 11:13 TO 15
First we quote four of the verses mentioned in our Scripture reading: “This
know also that in the last days PERILOUS TIMES SHALL COME.” “Having a
form of godliness but denying the power thereof. From such turn away.” (II Timothy
3:1 and 5).”(II Timothy 4:3 and 4).
In Jude Four we read of certain men who have crept in unawares. These men
are described as religious men, religious leaders. Peter also described these religious
leaders in II Peter 2:1 to 3 and wrote: “And many shall follow their pernicious ways,
by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.” II Peter 2:2.
Paul, in II Corinthians 11:3, tells how such pernicious ways begin. Then he
describes Satan and his religious servants in II Corinthians 11:13 to 15:
We here learn how religious leaders creep in under the control of the angel of light.
They get into religious groups even among Christians who have failed to obey II
Timothy 2:15 and II John 7. Some of them “speaketh great swelling words,” (Jude
16). Of course, they claim to be Christians and especially anointed apostles or
servants of Christ.
As we look about today and behold the tremendous increase of so-called
modernists in the evangelical seminaries, pulpits and pews, propagating their
Christianized agnosticism, we should think seriously of the Spirit’s warning
concerning the perilous times. These “Liberal” leaders use the Bible and some
Christian phraseology to deceive and seduce their followers. They neither teach nor
endure sound doctrine. They turn God’s Word into a fable and preach another Jesus
and another gospel, pleasing the religious people with itching ears. But Christians,
remember I John 2:26 to 28 and II John 3 to 8.
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Then think of the several million people in our own land, who have been seduced
into some of the antichrist or metaphysical cults propagating, in Bible phraseology,
the satanic vagaries of some false prophets. Several million who were formerly
members of some so-called Christian Church have accepted these delusions.
Because of the lack of real Scriptural evangelical Holy Spirit conviction on the part
of the “Modernist” leaders and even among some of the indifferent religious leaders
in dead orthodoxy, there is comparatively little real evangelistic zeal in most of the
churches and comparatively little conviction of sin on the part of the sinners.
Christianity has always had to earnestly contend for the faith in the face of legalism
or ritualism, rationalism and agnosticism. Paul wrote in Galatians 5:9, Satan had his
servants put in the leaven in the grace gospel to pervert that gospel, and to subvert
souls. (Galatians 1:6 to 9 - Acts 15:24). Satan is still using religious men to put in
the leaven. Take an inventory today and see the ritualism, rationalism and
fanaticism, which abound. All began with that leaven.
In Romans 9:30 to Romans 10:4 we read of religious men who sought righteousness,
not by faith; but by the works of the law. They found “Christ crucified” a stumbling-
block. The rationalist today finds the cross foolishness (Romans 9:32 - I Corinthians
1:21 to 25).
They have a zeal toward God; but not according to knowledge. Many today have a
form of godliness but deny the power thereof.
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STUDY FORTY
THE GOODNESS AND SEVERITY OF GOD
READ ROMANS 11:20 TO 2.4 - II THESSALONIANS 2:1 TO 13
HEBREWS 10:28 TO 31
In Romans 11:22 we read: “Behold therefore the goodness and severity of
God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in His
goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.” Romans 11:22.
A strange combination - the goodness of God - the severity of God. We understand
the meaning of the goodness of God; but this word “SEVERITY” means “decisive
action.”
This is the same combination we find in Romans 1:18 and in Romans 5:8 and
Ephesians 2:4 and 5: All through the Bible God is revealed as a holy, just and a
righteous Judge Who declares that every disobedience and transgression shall
receive a just recompense of reward. (Hebrews 2:2).
But God is also revealed as a merciful, compassionate, long suffering,
gracious loving Saviour, even the God of all grace (I Peter 5:10), Who is not willing
that any should perish but will have all men to be saved. (II Peter 3:9 - I Timothy 2:4
to 7). Here is a very solemn fact recorded in Romans 14:12.
And hear these words from the heart and mouth of the Lord Jesus Christ in John
5:22: Dealings with the Lord Jesus Christ are inescapable. Every individual must
meet Him here as Saviour and receive eternal life or meet Him hereafter as Judge
and receive everlasting punishment. (Romans 6:23 - Revelation 20:10, 14 and 15).
Every knee shall bow to Christ and acknowledge His Deity. (Philippians 2:5 to 10).
Read and believe John 3:36:
Hear God’s warning to Gentiles in Romans 11:21: But this is nothing to
compare with the awful judgment of God that is going to fall upon the present evil
age when II Thessalonians 2:1 to 12 is fulfilled, when the political and religious
world heads up under Satan’s beast and false prophet: “And for this cause God shall
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send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be
damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
Now read Hebrews 10:28 to 31, comparing the law-breakers, who died without
mercy under the reign of law, with the foolish sinners in this age and reign of grace,
who despise God’ grace and spurn His love and treat the blood of Christ as
something unholy. Judgment-vengeance. But for believing sinners read I
Thessalonians 5:9.
Even a superficial reader of the Bible knows that the Bible clearly and definitely
teaches that the human race is divided into two groups, “living saints” on the way to
eternal glory and “dead sinners” on the way to eternal conscious perdition. It is for
every person, either the blood of Christ or the lake of fire.
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STUDY FORTY - ONE

TOPIC: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF DR. LUKE
READ COLOSSIANS 4:14 - II TIMOTHY 4:11 - ACTS 16:10 - ACTS 16:16 AND
20 ACTS 21:15 ACTS 27:20 TO 37 - ACTS 28:16.
In this lesson we are to have the autobiography of one of the most faithful and noble
men in the Bible.
In Colossians 4:14 the apostle Paul calls this man, “Luke, the Beloved Physician.”
He is mentioned in Philemon 24 - II Timothy 4:11. Luke is mentioned at the end of
Paul’s Second Epistle to the Corinthians. How then are we to have Luke’s
autobiography?
We quote Acts 16:10 - Acts 21:15 - Acts 27:20 and 37 and Acts 28:16: Luke went
through that storm and shipwreck with Paul. The Beloved Physician was on a piece
of the wreck that reached the shore. (Acts 27:44).
If you want to study the biography of this noble, courageous faithful servant of the
Lord, find the “WE” used about fifty times in Acts, the “Us” and “OUR”, quoted
more than twenty-five times, that tell of the heroic deeds of Luke, the Beloved
Physician.
The Beloved Physician is included in the ‘WE’ in these verses; for Dr. Luke wrote
the Book of Acts. The ‘WE’ included Paul. What a comfort and encouragement
Luke must have been to Paul all the way, until the time of Paul’s death, when Paul
wrote, “only Luke is with me.” (II Timothy 4:11).
Luke wrote, what has been called, the Third Gospel, Although there are more
chapters in Matthew and Acts than in Luke, yet Luke’s Gospel contains more words
than any other Book in the New Testament Scriptures. Luke also wrote Acts. One
word is almost enough to convince us of this, if we need be convinced, the word
“certain,” found in Luke more than 40 times and in Acts more than 50 times.
In Luke and Acts there are 2158 verses; whereas in all of Paul’s Epistles to the
Church and to Gentiles, 13 messages (not including Hebrews), there are 2034 verses.
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In these Epistles of Paul, Paul used the first person pronoun in speaking of himself
about 1000 times. He was the chief human actor; the wise master builder. (I
Corinthians 3:10). We can read the wonderful achievements of Paul in these
Records, but we must “dig” for Luke’s achievements.
But Paul was neither presumptuous, deluded nor egotistical. Luke was his fellow-
laborer, and a good one. (Colossians 4:14 - Philemon 24). Paul was in jail in Rome
when he wrote these Epistles. Luke was with him undoubtedly unto the end.
Now note Luke 1:3 and Acts 1:1: “It seemed good to me also, having had perfect
understanding of all things, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus.”
“The former treatise have I made O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began to do and to
teach.” Here we learn of the only time that Luke used “I” and “me.” Even in Luke
1:1 and 2 he said “us.”
In Acts 16:10 (Luke) the writer of Acts used the “we” to let us know when he joined
Paul. Then in the verses following we have Luke’s journey with Paul from Troas by
several cities thence to Philippi.
On the sabbath Luke went to prayer (16:13). This, and Acts 16:20 causes any true
Berean to doubt if Luke was a Gentile.
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STUDY FORTY - TWO

Topic: SOME OF THE BIG “IF’S” OF THE BIBLE
READ MATTHEW 26:38 TO 46 - JOHN 11:46 TO 55 - JOHN 12:30 TO 33
I CORINTHIANS 15 - JOHN 16:7 TO 12 - 14:1 TO 3 - GALATIANS 2:21
GALATIANS 3:21 - ROMANS 10:9 AND 10 - JOHN 8:24 - I PETER 4:18
Perhaps we are not surprised that there are more than 1500 “IF’S” in the Bible.
There is an “IF” to all the “things that pertain to life and godliness, through the
knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” (II Peter 1:3). After we
read the good news that Christ made peace through the blood of His cross, to
reconcile all things to God (Colossians 1:20), we have the big “IF” of Colossians
1:23 and I Corinthians 15:2:
First let us note the all-important Gethsemane “IF” of Matthew 26:39 and Luke
22:44: “His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”
Was it possible? Was there another way for God to be just and the Justifier of
believing sinners? (Romans 3:24 to 26). There was not. The answer is His agony and
cry on the cross, “Finished.” (John 19:30). Note the “IF” of John 11:48 and 53: “IF”
we let Him (Christ) thus alone, the Romans shall come and take away both our place
and nation.” “Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put Him to
death.” Then Christ’s “IF” in John 12:31 to 33:
Christ was lifted up and at Calvary the judgment of the world took place. (Hebrews
2:9 - Hebrews 9:26 - I Peter 3:18). By Christ all who believe are justified from all
things. (Acts 13:39). There is no judgment for believers in Christ. (Romans 8:1 -
Romans 4:5 to 8).
Then the all-important “IF” of I Corinthians 15:17 and 18. “And IF Christ be not
raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen
asleep in Christ are perished.”
“IF” Christ had not come forth from death, as He foretold in John 10:17 and 18,
what we call “ Christianity” would have passed away with the death of the apostles
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of Christ. But Christ shewed Himself alive after His death to more than 500
Christians, by many infallible proofs. (I Corinthians 15:4 to 8 - Acts 1:3). Yes,
Christ was delivered for our offences and raised again for our justification, and He is
the only One whereby we must be saved. (Romans 4:20 to 25 - Acts 4:12). This
brings us to consider two great “IFS”: “I do not frustrate the grace of God: for IF
righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” “IF there had been a law
given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the
law.” (Galatians 2:21 and 3:21).
Consider these “IF’S”. IF the children of Adam could have been saved by any
human scheme or religious program, there was absolutely no reason why Christ
should have been foreordained, before Adam was created, to die on the cross to be
the Saviour of the world. (I Peter 1:18 and 19). As we read Christ’s “IF” in
Gethsemane and the “IFS” of Galatians 2:21 and Galatians 3:21, we marvel at the
presumption, audacity and ignorance of religious sinners who think they can please
God and get into heaven without accepting Christ and Calvary. But the explanation
is, “the god of this age.” (II Corinthians 4:3 and 4 - Revelation 12:9). The Lord Jesus
on earth said that He would have to go back to heaven, before the Holy Spirit would
come down from heaven to convict sinners of the sin of rejecting Him. “IF I go not
away the Comforter will not come unto you; but IF I depart, I will send Him unto
you.” (John 16:7).
“IF any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous.”
Now we consider three “IF’S”: “That IF thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord
Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou
shalt be saved.” “IF ye believe not that I AM HE, ye shall die in your sins.” “IF the
righteous scarely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?”
(Romans 10:9 - John 8:24 - I Peter 4:18). As Christians, let us remember the “IFS”
in I Corinthians 3:14 and Romans 8:17 - I John 1:9 - John 14:3.
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STUDY FORTY - THREE

TOPIC: JOSEPH THE WORLD SAVIOUR
READ GENESIS 30:22 TO 2 - GENESIS 37:2 TO 39 GENESIS 39:2 TO 6 -
GENESIS 42:6 - GENESIS 45:1 TO 9 - GENESIS 45:28.
As we read the biography of Joseph in the 14 chapters of Genesis - chapters 37 to
50, we conclude that Joseph was a very noble character. Surely there is some Divine
reason why the name “Joseph” is found 137 times in Genesis.
In Romans 5:14 we read that Adam was the figure of Christ. In Hebrews 11:17 to 19
we learn that Isaac on the altar and then restored to his father Abraham was a figure
of God’s only begotten Son; not spared (Romans 8:32), but raised from the dead the
third day. (Read Genesis 22:4 and Genesis 22:11 to 19).
There is a sense in which Joseph was a figure, or a type, of the Lord Jesus Christ; but
we know that all types, figures and shadows of Christ and His redemptive work are
imperfect.
Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel. Benjamin
was Joseph’s brother by the same mother as well as by the same father. “God
remembered Rachel and she conceived and bare a son ... and she called his name
Joseph.” (Genesis 30:22 to 24). “Joseph” is from the Hebrew word meaning “to
add.” Joseph was added; but Rachel seemed to have the assurance that God would
add Benjamin. We read in Genesis 29:17 and 18 and 30: “Rachel was beautiful and
well favored, and Jacob loved Rachel more than Leah.” Leah was Rachel’s sister,
whom he also married.
Joseph was the son of Jacob’s old age and his father loved Joseph more than all his
children. Jacob made Joseph a coat of many colors. (Genesis 37:3).
The Lord Jesus Christ was God’s eternal Son. He was crowned with glory and
honor, anointed with the oil of gladness above His fellows. Christ was the effulgence
of God’s glory. (Hebrews 2:9 - Hebrews 1:9) Joseph’s brethren hated him with cruel
jealousy, and when they were told that they would have to bow in subjection to
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Joseph, they hated him with a vicious hatred. (Genesis 37:4 and 9 to 11). They put
him in a pit and covered his coat with blood. Then they sold him to God’s enemies
for 20 pieces of silver; and took the blood-stained garment back to the father that
loved Joseph so much. (Genesis 37:12 to 36).
Israel envied and hated Christ (even without a cause - John 15:25). (Luke 19:14).
Christ was sold for 30 pieces of silver and delivered to God’s enemies to be
disgraced and humiliated. His coat of many colors was really stained with blood.
(Matthew 26:15 - Matthew 27:18 - Matthew 27:26). Christ took His blood into the
presence of His Father, having obtained eternal redemption for us. (Hebrews 9:12 -
Hebrews 1:1 to 4).
God exalted Joseph after he had suffered much, and gave him a name above every
name in the world. (Genesis 41:42 to 45). Joseph was the ruler and Saviour and all
bowed down before him. (Genesis 42:6). God overruled man’s treachery and crime
in the case of Joseph.
After Christ suffered obedience unto death God highly exalted Him with a name
above every name, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.” (Philippians
2:5 to 11 ). Then when Joseph’s brethren bowed before him and wept, confessing
their sins, Joseph said some wonderful things to his brethren. (Read Genesis 45:1 to
7). Then read how God delivered Christ by His determinate counsel and
foreknowledge. (Acts 2:22 and 4:25 to 29). Joseph’s father said, “My son is alive,”
(Genesis 45:28). God wants every sinner and saint to know that His Son is alive.
(Revelation 1:18 - Romans 6:9 - Hebrews 7:25).
The true JOSEPH is coming back and His brethren will weep as they look on Him
Whom they pierced. (Zechariah 12:10 - Revelation 1:7). Then Christ will take His
world throne and rule the whole earth and bring about the restitution of all things.
(Isaiah 9:6 and 7 - Acts 3:19 to 21 - Isaiah 2:2 to 8).
The people of Joseph’s time would have starved to death, physically had he not
provided bread for the world.
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STUDY FORTY- FOUR

TOPIC: STAND FAST AND STEADFAST
READ GALATIANS 5:1 TO 4 - I CORINTHIANS 3:8 TO 15
I CORINTHIANS 15:58
Let us compare Galatians 5:1 and I Corinthians 15:58: “Stand fast therefore in the
liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke
of bondage.” “Therefore my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always
abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in
vain in the Lord.”
It is obvious that a person must first have liberty before that person can stand fast in
that liberty. Believers have liberty because they are in Christ, and there is no
condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus: “For the law of the Spirit of life in
Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:1 and 2).
Christ said, in John 8:36; “Whom the Son sets free shall be free indeed”. Then we
read in Romans 6:18 and Romans 7:6, “Being made free from sin ye became the
servants of righteousness.” “But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead
wherein we were held: that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the
oldness of the letter.” Liberty in Christ Jesus, by the grace of God.
So we learn that Christians are delivered from the law of sin and death, from sin and
from the law given at Sinai; by the work of Christ - (Romans 8:2 and 3).
The Gentiles, throughout Galatia, as sinners, had not been under the law. But many
of them, who were saved by Paul’s grace gospel, were bewitched by zealous
religious Jews described in Acts 15:9 and 5, who taught the Gentile Christians . . .
“Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.”
Paul called these bewitched Gentile Christians, “foolish Galatians”, (Galatians 3:1 to
4). Even Peter the minister of the circumcision, said . . . “why tempt ye God, to put a
yoke (the law) upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were
able to bear?” (Acts 15:10).
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Note Paul’s words to those Gentile Christians who went back from Calvary to Sinai:
“Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law;
ye are fallen from grace.” (Galatians 5:4).
Paul wrote in Romans 5:2 of this grace wherein we stand. He pled with the Galatians
not to make the vain attempt to supplement the grace of God or make their salvation
more secure by getting under the law.
Note Paul’s words in Galatians 2:21: “I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if
right-eousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” In Romans 6:14 Paul
wrote: “Ye are not under the law but under grace.”
Christ had suffered intense agony to deliver all who were under the law (Galatians
3:13) and to give liberty to believing Jews and Gentiles.
So Paul urged the Christians not to be entangled with the yoke of bondage but to
stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath set them free.
Now compare Romans 4:5 with I Corinthians 15:58: “But to him that worketh not,
but believeth, on Him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for
righteousness.” “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable,
always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is
not in vain in the Lord.” Now read I Corinthians 3:11 to 15 and learn that it is
possible to be saved so as by fire without works that will be rewarded. The thief on
the cross was saved, but he had no good works for reward. But if we build on Christ
the foundation our works will abide; will be wellpleasing to God and will be richly
rewarded. (Read Colossians 3:15 to 25).
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STUDY FORTY - FIVE

TOPIC: ISRAELITISH SERPENTS AND GENTILE DOGS
READ ROMANS 1:16 - ACTS 3:26 - ACTS 13:46 - MARK 7:24 TO 30
MATTHEW 23:33 - ACTS 3:25
First let us carefully note the statement of Christ in Matthew 21:42, that He would be the Stone
rejected by the Builders. The nation Israel, with her rulers did reject their Messiah and Divine
King. The wonderful Parable of the Vineyard in Matthew 21:33 to 43 tells the story: “They caught
Him (the Heir) and cast Him out of the Vineyard and slew Him.” (Matthew 21:39.
After felling something of Israel’s history in this parable Christ used some very strong language in
denouncing His own nation. After calling them “blind fools,” “blind guides” and “hypocrites”
(Matthew 23:17, 19, 23, and 24) Christ said: “Ye SERPENTS, ye generation of vipers, how can ye
escape the damnation of hell?” Shortly thereafter these same Israelites, whom Christ called
“SERPENTS,” killed the Prince of Life.” (Acts 3:14 and 15). So we might ask this question; if the
Israelites were “SERPENTS” and vipers, headed for hell, before they put Christ to death, were
they worse than SERPENTS after they added to their long list of sins? Read Acts 7:51 to 56 and I
Thessalonians 2:14 to 16.
Before we answer this question let us read what Christ said to a Gentile woman in Mark 7:27: “But
Jesus said unto her, Let THE CHILDREN first be filled: for it is not meet to take the
CHILDREN’S bread and to cast it unto the DOGS.” Here we learn that the Lord Jesus in no
uncertain language called Gentiles, “DOGS.” But at this time the Israelites, who were
“CHILDREN,” had not yet become the “SERPENTS” and “vipers” of Matthew 23:33. Then note
what Christ said about the “CHILDREN” in Matthew 8:12: “They shall be cast out into outer
darkness,” But the “children” were to be filled FIRST.
Keep the two statements in mind, “Let the CHILDREN FIRST BE FILLED.” “The CHILDREN
shall be cast out into outer darkness.” But let us also remember, as we leave the Four Gospels and
the earthly ministry of the Lord Jesus, we leave the Israelites as “SERPENTS” and “vipers” and
the Gentiles as “DOGS.” Which do you think should come FIRST, a “SERPENT” or a “DOG?”
Most people prefer “DOGS” to “SERPENTS.” But the Jews came FIRST with GOD. (Acts 3:26).
In answering this question we quote Romans 1:16: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:
for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; TO THE JEW FIRST, and
ALSO TO THE GREEK.” Here we have our answer. “TO THE JEW FIRST.” “And also to the
Greek.” That Gentile woman was a Greek, and Christ called her a “DOG.” We can understand why
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God’s order was “TO THE JEWS FIRST” when the Jews were “CHILDREN”; but not when they
were “SERPENTS.” The “CHILDREN” should be filled before “DOGS” received anything.
Why were the Jews FIRST in Acts 3:26? Because they were “CHILDREN” again, in Acts 3:25.
Something had changed the “SERPENTS” back to “CHILDREN.” We quote these two verses:
“Unto you FIRST God, having raised up His Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you (Israel), in turning
away every one of you from his iniquities.” (Acts 3:26). “Ye are THE CHILDREN of the prophets,
and of the covenant which God made with our fathers.” (Acts 3:25).
Can you explain the changes? In Matthew 8:12 and Mark 7:27 the Jews are CHILDREN.” In
Matthew 23:33 the same Jews are “SERPENTS” and “vipers.” In Acts 3:25 the same Jews are
“CHILDREN” again. And between the time of Matthew 23:33 and Acts 3:25 they had killed the
Prince of Life (Acts 3:14 and 15). They had been the betrayers and murderers of Christ. (Acts 7:51
to 54). It seems that between Matthew 23:33 and Acts 3:14 and 15 they had become worse than
“SERPENTS.”
As we behold the Son of God on the cross, we hear Him pray for Israel, “Father, forgive them, for
they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34). This prayer changed the “SERPENTS” to
“CHILDREN.” Christ’s death had to be. (Acts 3:18 - Acts 4:25 to 29 - Acts 2:22 and 23.) So the
sin of the “SERPENTS” in stoning and killing their prophets and in crucifying the Lord of glory (I
Corinthians 2:8) was pardonable. God was willing to attribute it to ignorance (Acts 3:17), and blot
it out, if Israel would repent. (Acts 3:19 to 26). So the Jews were tenderly and graciously addressed
as “CHILDREN” and they were offered the FIRST blessing. But they stoned Stephen. They
continued to blaspheme (Acts 13:45 - Acts 18:5), and then they committed their fourth great sin;
for they forbade the apostles to preach to the Gentiles. That filled up their sins and the wrath of
God came upon them to the uttermost. (I Thessalonians 2:14 to 16).
Paul presented to Israel the sure mercies of David, by the resurrection of Christ, forgiveness and
justification through Him (Acts 13:30 to 39). Then He warned them. (Acts 13:40 to 42). When
they continued to blaspheme and reject the resurrected Christ, Paul said to the Jews . . . “It was
necessary that the Word of God should FIRST have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from
you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, LO, WE TURN TO THE GENTILES.”
Acts 13:46.
Then THE CHILDREN OF THE KINGDOM (Matthew 8:12) were cast away into blindness and
darkness (Romans 11:7 to 9 - Romans 11:15); and the Gentiles received mercy because of the
unbelief of “THE CHILDREN,” the Jews. (Romans 11:30).
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STUDY FORTY - SIX

TOPIC: THE HANDWRITING AND THE SAND WRITING
READ EXODUS 20:14 - EXODUS 31:18 - LEVITICUS 20:10 - JOHN 8:1 TO 11
JOHN 3:17 AND 18
Only as we understand the statement, “where sin abounded grace did much more
abound,” and how grace reigns through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus
Christ our Lord (Romans 5:20 and 21), can we really appreciate the truth concerning
the children of God in Romans 6:14.
Under the law, God’s people received the spirit of bondage unto fear. But it is so
different under grace. (Romans 8:15). “Wherefore thou art no more a servant but a
son; and if a son then an heir of God through Christ.”
How did God get His people from under the law? Note Colossians 2:13 and 14:
“Blotting out the HANDWRITING of ordinances that was against us, which was
contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross.” (Colossians 2:14.)
It require the unspeakable suffering of the eternal Christ, the Lord of glory, the
Creator of the heavens and the earth, and all the shame and tragedy of Calvary to get
that HANDWRITING out of the way. Read Ephesians 2:13 to 19.
Under the law, the transgressor of the HANDWRITING of God, died without mercy
under two or more witnesses. (Hebrews 10:28). The Lord Himself wrote the
commandments on two tables of stone; “Thou shalt” - “thou shalt not.” God gave
Israel a yoke of bondage which no one was ever able to bear, (Galatians 5:1 to 3 -
Acts 15:10). (Hebrews 12:18 to 21). God gave unto Moses upon Mount Sinai two
tables of stone, WRITTEN WITH THE FINGER OF GOD.” (Exodus 31:18).
The Lord Jesus Christ was made under the law. (Galatians 4:4). He asked the
question “which one of you convinceth Me of sin?” (John 8:46). Christ truthfully
said, “I do always those things that please God.” (John 8:29). Christ never had to
apologize to one human being for doing wrong. He never had to confess one sin to
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His holy Father; for Christ was without sin. On the cross of Calvary the sinless
Christ died with law-breakers and was made a curse to deliver law-breakers from the
curse of the law. (Galatians 3:13 - Luke 23:32).
Before Christ went to Calvary some self-righteous men, who were sure they were
real respectable, religious law-keepers, and expert judges of others, found a woman
transgressing the seventh commandment, “Thou shalt not commit adultery.” They
said, “Moses in the law commanded us that such should be stoned. What sayest
Thou?” (John 8:5). Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground.
This was the SANDWRITING. Just what He wrote, perhaps we will learn in heaven.
But Christ said to the would-be stone-throwers, “He that is without sin, let him first
cast a stone at her.” (John 8:7). Christ did some more SANDWRITING, (John 8:8).
The religious men all disappeared. Christ, Who was without sin, was left alone with
the sinful woman. (John 8:9 to 11). Christ could have cast the stones. Christ came to
save sinners, not to stone them. (I Timothy 1:15).
The law was given by Moses; grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. (John 1:17).
Moses did say that that woman should surely be put to death. (Leviticus 20:10). The
law was, the ministration of death. (II Corinthians 3:7). But Christ was not Moses.
Christ came to do, by grace, for the human race, what Moses an and the law could
not do. (Romans 8:3 - Hebrews 7:19 - Romans 10:4). The law was the ministration
of condemnation, THE HANDWRITING of II Corinthians 3:9 and 3:7.
With the SANDWRITING Christ said to the condemned woman, “neither do I
condemn thee, go in peace and sin no more.” (John 8:11). Christ was not minimizing
the woman’s sin. He was magnifying His grace and proving John 3:17: “For God
sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through
Him might be saved.”
The hands that wrote the law at Sinai were nailed to the tree at Calvary. (Galatians
3:13).
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STUDY FORTY - SEVEN

TOPIC: IS THE PENTECOST COMMUNISM FOR THE CHURCH?
READ LUKE 12:32 AND 33 - ACTS 2:44 AND 45 - ACTS 4:34 TO 37.
In writing to Timothy some twenty-five years or more after Christ died, the Holy
Spirit, by Paul, said; “But if any provide not for his own house, he hath denied the
faith, and is worse than an infidel.” (I Timothy 5:8), This is indeed strong language.
In Luke 3:11, the Holy Spirit, by John the Baptist, said; “He that hath two coats, let
him impart to him that hath none, and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.” In this
order we have the principle of communism.
Then note the words of the Lord Jesus, spoken to His disciples; “Fear not, little
flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell that ye
have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the
heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.” (Luke
12:32 and 33). Could Christians today sell or give away what they possess and
provide well for their families? Christ’s language in Luke 12 is plain. Then in
harmony with this we observe the events of Pentecost some months later: “Then
they that gladly received his Word were baptized: and the same day there were
added unto them about three thousand souls.” “And all that believed were together
and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them
to all men, as every man had need.” (Acts 2:41 and 44 and 45). This is almost
complete communism.
The little flock became a larger flock; for three thousand more were added. If the
Pentecost Church is our pattern Church, where is our communism?
Then note Acts 4:4, 34 and 35: “Howbeit many of them which heard the Word
believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.” “Neither was there
any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of land or houses sold
them, and brought the price of the things that were sold. And laid them down at the
apostles’ feet and dist` ribution was made unto every man according as he had
need.”
The little flock continued to increase and even multiply. (Acts 5:14 - Acts 6:7). Is it
not as inconsistent to preach Acts 2:38 with the cry, “back to Pentecost” and not
demand the sale of property and the surrender of the proceeds as it is to preach Mark
16:14 to 16 and wink at Mark 16:17 and 18?
In the Gospel of Luke surely the Lord Jesus Christ was Israel’s “Shepherd-King.”
And from the messages proclaimed by Christ and the kingdom program He
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announced, Israel should surely have lived by the twenty-third Psalm, saying, “the
Lord is my Shepherd.”
Remember that Christ was born in the city of David, and this was announced to
shepherds. (Luke 2:8 to 14). Christ was born in the house of David, to deliver Israel
from their Gentile oppressors (Luke 1:67 to 77).
Christ was born the Seed of David to be Israel’s Saviour, and to take the throne of
David. (Acts 13:23 - Luke 1:27 to 33). These Scriptures state these facts most clearly
and definitely. Christ’s disciples were thus instructed; “seek not what ye shall eat or
what ye shall drink” - “Take nothing for your journey, neither money, nor, its
equivalent, no bread and just one garment.” (Luke 12:29 - Luke 9:3 - and Luke
10:3).
How could a Christian obey these instructions and at the same time obey I Timothy
5:8 providing well for his family?
In Luke 12:27 Christ said: “Consider the lilies that toil not.” In Proverbs Israel was
instructed to consider the toiling ants, in a different dispensation.
Christians in this age of grace should consider both. Christians should toil but obey
Philippians 4:6 and 7.
Again we ask if the Church of Pentecost was the ideal Church, why is not the
communism of Acts 2:41 to 44 and 34 to 37 God’s program today? The whole
Pentecost program was a Kingdom program.
Not long after those Christians gave up their property they were driven out of
Jerusalem, and thus all their earthly possessions were gone. (Acts 8:1 and Acts
11:19).
Moreover later on Paul was asking Christians out of Jerusalem, including Gentiles,
to send money by him for the support of the poor. (Romans 15:27). Our communism
program is Romans 12:13.
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STUDY FORTY - EIGHT

TOPIC: THE THREE GREAT LAWS
READ ROMANS 8:1 TO 4 - GALATIANS 3:21 - ROMANS 7:13 TO 25
The three laws of Romans 8:1 to 4 occupy a very large place in the Bible:
1 . The law of sin and death - by Adam. 2. The law given at Sinai - by Moses. 3. The
law of the Spirit of life - By Christ.
Some of the most interesting and significant truth in all the Bible is found in Romans
5:20 and 21: “Moreover, the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where
sin abounded, grace did much more abound; That as sin hath reigned unto death,
even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our
Lord.”
1. The offence entered by Adam. 2. The law entered by Moses. 3. Grace reigns unto
eternal life by Christ.
The law of sin and death is universal. Death is spiritual, physical and the second
death. (John 5:23 to 29) (Ephesians 2:1 to 6) (Romans 6:23) (Revelation 20:12 to
15). Sin and death entered by Adam. (Romans 5:12). The law was given by Moses.
(John 1:17). By the law is the knowledge of sin, and by it let every mouth be closed.
(Romans 3:19 and 20). Romans 4:15). (II Corinthians 3:7), The law made nothing
perfect; but the work of Christ on the cross did (Hebrews 7:19). This is the truth of
Romans 8:2 to 4.
A very religious, sincere man tried to be righteous by the law and failed, because
“the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin.” Christ did what the law could
not do. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.
(Romans 7:14 - Romans 8:3 - Romans 10:4). Note Paul’s confession and conclusion
in Philippians 3:4 to 10 - Galatians 3:21 - Romans 3:28.
There is wonderful news for sinful humanity, in Romans 8:1 to 4, in the law of life
in Christ Jesus. All are condemned in Adam. (Romans 5:17 and 18). Moses’ law is
the ministration of condemnation. (II Corinthians 3:9). But there is no condemnation
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to believers in Christ. (Romans 8:1). “By Him all that believe are justified from all
things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.” Read this good
news in Acts 13:39 and give thanks unto the Lord for the truth of Romans 5:20 & 21
Thus we see that By Adam is the entrance of sin. (Romans 5:12). By Moses is the
knowledge of sin. (Romans 3:20). By Christ is the forgiveness of sins. (Acts 13:38)
(Romans 8:3).
The sum total of man’s spiritual duty and responsibility is To APPROPRIATE the
law of the Spirit of life.
To DEMONSTRATE the law of the Spirit of life. To PROPAGATE the law of the
Spirit of life.
The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus is the fact that the omnipotent, eternal
perfect Christ had power to lay down His life in death, take it up in resurrection, and
abolish death and give life and incorruptibility to believing sinners. (John 10:17 and
18, II Timothy 1:10). Surely the very heart of the gospel is in II Timothy 1:9 and 10,
confirming John 11:25 and showing how Christ established the law of life.
To APPROPRIATE this law of life is to be saved, is to pass out of death into life.
Then God declares the believer to be alive from the dead. (Romans 6:13 - John
11:25 and 26 - Galatians 2:20 - Colossians 2:13).
To DEMONSTRATE this law, means to demonstrate Galatians 2:20 - II Corinthians
4:6 - by walking in the Spirit, manifesting the fruit of the Spirit and fulfilling the
righteousness of the law. (Romans 8:4). When the sinner by faith appropriates the
law of life, he receives the Holy Spirit.
To PROPAGATE this law of life is to preach this life, giving the message to others.
“We preach not ourselves but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for
Jesus’ sake; for God. Who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath
shined in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face
of Jesus Christ. (II Corinthians 4:5 and 6). As we thus demonstrate and propagate,
let us remember I Corinthians 1:21.
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STUDY FORTY - NINE

TOPIC: LESS TOLERABLE FOR THE UNITED STATES
READ MARK 6:11 - GENESIS 9:24 AND 25 - II PETER 2:6 - HEBREWS 10:28
TO 33 MATTHEW 24:21 AND 22 - II THESSALONIANS 2:6 TO 12
Let us read in Mark 6:11 the solemn words of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who is going to
be revealed in flaming fire for vengeance upon them who will not have Him as
Saviour, (II Thessalonians 1:7 to 10), being assured that this awful judgment is
rapidly approaching:
“And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake
off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It
shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for
that city.” (Mark 6:11).
Compare with this His awful pronouncement upon Capernaum in very much the
same language. The Lord referred to the mighty works that He had done in their
midst. According to historians, terrible destruction fell upon Capernaum; but the
words meant more terrible judgment than the destruction of that Christ-rejecting
city. (Hebrews 9:27). (Luke 10:13 to 15).
Let us compare Genesis 19:24 and 25 and II Peter 2:6: “Then the Lord rained upon
Sodom and Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord of heaven: And He
overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that
which grew upon the ground.”
A more terrible judgment than God’s upon Sodom and Gomorrah was pronounced
upon the people, who would not hear and heed the messages which Christ
proclaimed by His messengers. That fire and brimstone destruction of Gomorrah
was an example of the “fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Christ
died to deliver us from God’s wrath to come. Read Hebrews 10:29 to 32 - I
Thessalonians 1:9 and 10. Then read II Peter 2:6 with II Thessalonians 1:7 to 10.
Why more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah? Sodom and Gomorrah did not have a
visit from the incarnate God, the Lord Jesus Christ. They did not see the mighty
works of the Son of God and hear Him speak as never man spake. Think of it; the
people of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed about 1900 B.C. That was more
than 500 years before Moses was directed to write Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus,
Numbers and Deuteronomy, the first five Books of the Bible. The inhabitants of
Sodom and Gomorrah did not have God’s written revelation. They had the
revelation of God in Creation (Romans 1:18 to 30). They had the law written in their
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hearts. (Romans 2:15). Just imagine the people of the United States without a line of
the Bible and never having heard of Christ, His teaching, death and resurrection.
Surely Lot’s testimony was about worthless. What other prophets did they have?
Compare our spiritual privileges and spiritual opportunities with those of Sodom.
If they were without excuse (Romans 1:20), think of the inhabitants of Capernaum
and Jerusalem after 4000 years of God’s dealings with man. They had the thirty-nine
inspired Books, the Holy Scriptures, and then a visit of their own Divine, eternal
Jehovah, Who proved by fulfilling the Scriptures and by miracles, signs and
wonders, and by speaking as never man spake, His unity and equality with God. He
proved to His friends that He was Israel’s promised Messiah. Sodom and Gomorrah
had little Divine light compared with Israel in the days of Christ.
Note what Christ declared by Paul some years later: “And the times of this ignorance
God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.” Acts 17:30.
Compare this with Hebrews 10:28 to 33.
This age will end in the most terrible judgment this earth has ever known (Matthew
24:21 to 24).
Now the United States has all that Capernaum had and also the complete revelation
of God in the Bible, 1900 years of Christianity, and in this country think of the
gospel by radio, the Bill of Rights. No nation has ever been blessed with such
spiritual privileges and opportunities as has this country.
It will be less tolerable for the people who live in the United States in the day of
God’s wrath than for the inhabitants of Sodom or Capernaum. Wake up! stupid
sinner and sleeping saints.
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STUDY FIFTY
TOPIC: PARTAKERS OF CHRIST
READ HEBREWS 3:14,HEBREWS 3:1, HEBREWS 6:4 - HEBREWS 12:8 TO 10 I PETER 4:13
- II PETER 1:4 - I TIMOTHY 6:2 - COLOSSIANS 1:12 - EPHESIANS 3:6, I CORINTHIANS
9:12 - I CORINTHIANS 10:17 - ROMANS 15:27 - I PETER 5:1, II JOHN 1:1 - II TIMOTHY 1:8
- II TIMOTHY 2:6 - I TIMOTHY 2:22, I CORINTHIANS 9:10 - II CORINTHIANS 1:7
In Hebrews 3:14 we read that we are made PARTAKERS OF CHRIST. Then let us
see how this chapter begins: We are PARTAKERS of the heavenly calling. We are
PARTAKERS of Christ. So we want to consider just how we PARTAKE.
Something of this is told by Christ in John 6:51; 53 to 58.
There are several different Greek words translated “PARTAKERS” or
“PARTAKE.” The word used in Hebrews 3:14 and 3:1 is “METOCHOS.” This
word is used in Luke 5:7 where the word is translated “PARTNERS.”
Note again in Luke 5:10, concerning James and John in the fishing business, “which
were ‘PARTNERS’ with Simon.” This word translated ‘PARTNERS’ is the Greek
“KOINONOS.” This is the word translated “PARTAKERS” in II Peter 1:4:
“Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these ye
might be PARTAKERS of the Divine nature.”
Here we learn that Christians are PARTAKERS of Christ’s nature; by promises.
Then note Ephesians 3:6 “That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same
Body, and PARTAKERS of His promise in Christ by the gospel.”
Here we learn that the once-alienated Gentiles are joint-heirs of the Joint-Body and
JOINT-SHARERS of His promise. The Greek word here is “SUMMETOCHOS”,
meaning COPARTNERS. Paul, in Romans 15:27, Romans 11:17, tells the Gentile
Christians that they were PARTAKERS of Israel’s spiritual BLESSING.
But in Titus 1:1 and II Timothy 1:9 we learn that before Israel was created for God’s
glory, long before Adam was created in God’s image, Gentile members of the Body
of Christ were promised eternal life.
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Let us note Philippians 3:10: “That I may know Him, and the power of His
resurrection, and the FELLOWSHIP of His sufferings, being made conformable
unto His death.” FELLOWSHIP.” This word “FELLOWSHIP” is the Greek
“KOINONIA”, which is translated “PARTAKER” in Romans 15:27 quoted above.
Also in I Peter 4:13, where the same thought as Philippians 3:10 is expressed;
Christians are to be PARTAKERS of the sufferings of Christ.
Note how this is expressed in II Timothy 1:8: “Be thou a PARTAKER
(SUSKAKOPATHEO) of the afflictions of the gospel.” This means to really suffer.
It has special reference to the ministry and message for which Paul was in the
Roman prison. He wrote from that prison and called Philemon his PARTNER.
(Philemon 17). This is the same Greek word as used in Luke 5:10.
We are told in Hebrews 2:14 and 15, that Christ was a PARTAKER of flesh and
blood, to destroy Satan’s death power, and to deliver saints. In addition to Christ’s
Divine nature He was a Partaker of human nature for the purpose of suffering death,
(Hebrews 2:9), that we might, in addition to our human natures, be partakers of His
Divine nature. (II Peter 1:4).
This blessing comes to believers who are PARTAKERS of Paul’s grace.
(Philippians 1:7). This make them PARTAKERS of Christ’s holiness. (Hebrews
12:10). We are PARTAKERS of the Holy Spirit. (Hebrews 6:4). If we are
PARTAKERS of Christ and PARTAKERS of His sufferings, we shall be
PARTAKERS of His glory. (I Peter 5:1). Therefore we are PARTAKERS of hope.
(I Corinthians 9:10).We are warned against being PARTAKERS of other men’s sins.
(I Timothy 2:22 - Ephesians 5:7 and 11). And a very special warning is given to
Christians to have no fellowship in the support of any preacher who denies the Deity
of Christ and salvation by His blood. Lest we be “PARTAKERS” of his evil deeds.
(II John 5 to 9).
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STUDY FIFTY - ONE

TOPIC: THE BROKEN THINGS OF THE BIBLE
READ EXODUS 31:18 - EXODUS 32:15 TO 24 - EXODUS 34:1 - EXODUS
25:21 EXODUS 40:20 - ACTS 2:10 - LUKE 22:19 - I CORINTHIANS 11:24
I CORINTHIANS 10:16 - MATTHEW 21:44 - PSALMS 51:17
First let us consider the two broken stones on which God Himself wrote the ten
commandments. Israel’s law: (Exodus 31:18). (Exodus 32:16), Exodus 32:19.
This was very significant. The BROKEN STONES meant not only that Israel had
broken God’s law, but the best that the best of the human race could do would be to
break God’s law. “And I took the two tables and cast them out of my two hands, and
brake them before your eyes.” Deuteronomy 9:17. But note Exodus 34:1: “And the
Lord said unto Moses, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first: and I will
write upon these tables the words that were in the first tables, which thou
BRAKEST.” And 25:21: “And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the ark; and in the
ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee.”
Here we see both the terror of the law and the mercy of God under the law. In
Hebrews 2:1 to 3 and in Romans 3:25 to 27 we learn that surely every disobedience
and transgression must receive a just recompense of reward and that God must first
be just and then merciful. The law of the Lord is just and demands justice and
perfection. The mercy seat spoke of Christ on the cross being the propitiation for the
sins of the whole world. (I John 2:2).
The law worketh wrath. (Romans 4:15). (Read John 7:19). Christ made peace
through the blood of His cross. (Colossians 1:20).
Christ lived a sinless life under the law, then died with lawbreakers, for all
lawbreakers, to deliver them from the curse of the law, (Galatians 3:13). Thus Christ
became the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (Romans
10:4).
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Because of Christ’s perfection in life, death and resurrection, God can be just and the
Justifier of all who believe on Christ and accept His perfect propitiation. God freely
justifies all such believers. (Romans 3:24 to 28 - Acts 13:39). Of this the blood-
sprinkled mercyseat, above the unbroken stones spoke.
When God gave the law at Sinai no one could endure it. (Hebrews 12:20). It was
contrary to them. (Colossians 2:13 to 16). It was a yoke no one but Christ was able
to bear. (Acts 15:10).
Thus we have the BROKEN STONES and the BROKEN COMMANDMENTS.
“The House of Israel and the House of Judah have BROKEN My Covenant.”
(Jeremiah 30:10 - Psalms 89:31 and 34). Later Israel and Judah fell on the Stone of
Matthew 21:44 and were BROKEN. (Romans 11:11).
Now note the words of Christ in Luke 22:19 and the words of Paul in I Corinthians
10:16 and I Corinthians 11:24: “And He took bread and gave thanks and BRAKE it,
and gave unto them, saying, This is My body which is given for you: this do in
remembrance of Me.” “The bread which we BRAKE, is it not the communion of the
body of Christ?” “And when He had given thanks, He BRAKE it, and said, Take,
eat; this is My body, which is BROKEN for you: this do in remembrance of Me.”
Thus we have the BROKEN STONES - The BROKEN COVENANT (law) - The
BROKEN BODY of Christ - The BROKEN BREAD.
We BREAK bread at the Lord’s Table because His body was BROKEN, because the
descendants of Adam BROKE the law.
Then after we accept the broken body of Christ for redemption and think of Calvary,
when taking the broken bread at the Table, let us remember another broken thing:
“The sacrifices of God are a BROKEN spirit: a BROKEN and a contrite heart, O
God, thou wilt not despise.” Psalms 51:17.
In Jeremiah 30:8 we read that the Lord will come to BREAK the Gentiles’ yoke off
Israel.
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STUDY FIFTY - TWO

TOPIC: ADAM AND EVE—CHRIST AND THE CHURCH
READ GENESIS 1:26 AND 27 - GENESIS 5:1 TO 3 - HEBREWS 1:1 TO 3
ROMANS 8:28 TO 32 - ROMANS 8:3 - I CORINTHIANS 15:49 TO 53
II CORINTHIANS 5:17 - II CORINTHIANS 3:18 - PHILIPPIANS 3:20 AND 21
In God’s message and program of grace revealed to the apostle Paul, we read: “If
any man be in Christ he is a new creature,” “he has put off the old man and has put
on the new man, who is created in the image of Him Who created him.” The new
creature has died and has been buried and resurrected with Christ (spiritually); and
he is a member of that Church Which is one flesh with Christ. Christ will present
that Church unto Himself as a glorious, spotless Church, holy and without blemish.
(II Corinthians 5:17 - Colossians 3:10 - Romans 6:3 to 6 - Ephesians 5:31 and 32 -
Ephesians 5:26 and 27).
In Genesis 1:26 and 27 and 5:1 and 2, we have a two-fold story of the creation of
Adam. Adam was created, without Eve, in the image and likeness of God. Then in
Genesis 5:1 and 2 we read that God created them (Adam and Eve) . . . “God called
THEIR name ADAM.” We read in Genesis 2:23 that Adam and Eve were one flesh.
Adam and Eve, one flesh, called “ADAM”, typified the Lord Jesus Christ and the
Church, one flesh, called “Christ”, in Ephesians 5:31 and 32, I Corinthians 12:12.
Christ was the one Perfect Man. Christ and the Church will be one Perfect Man.
(Ephesians 4:13). God will complete that which He is making according to
Ephesians 2:15, “One New Man”. Adam, the first man, was a figure of Christ the
Second Man, the last Adam. (Romans 5:14 - I Corinthians 15:45 to 48). Then note
the contrast, between Adam created in God’s image and likeness and Adam’s
children born in his sinful likeness. (Genesis 5:3).
This sinful image and likeness of Adam has been passed on to every member of the
human race. (Psalm 51:5 - Romans 5:12).
Jesus Christ was the express image of God’s Person, and the effulgence of God’s
glory. In Christ dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. (Hebrews 1:1 and 2 -
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Colossians 2:9 - Colossians 1:15 to 19). Christ was God in human form. The Word
became flesh, the Man Jesus of Nazareth, in the form of flesh and blood; in the
likeness of sinful flesh. (John 1:14 - Hebrews 2:14 - Romans 8:3). Open your Bible
and read Philippians 2:5 to 10.
Before Adam sinned God foreknew and predestinated that, for the glory of His Son,
He would have a race of sons conformed to the image of Christ, God’s workmanship
created in Christ Jesus. Whom God foreknew He predestinated to be conformed to
the image of His Son. (Romans 8:28 to 32 - Ephesians 2:10). In Romans 8:20 and 31
we learn that man’s glorification is included in this eternal purpose of God. (II
Timothy 1:9 - Ephesians 3:11). So the believer can say “Christ liveth in me, the hope
of glory.” (Galatians 2:20 - Colossians 1:27).
Yes, the believer is a new creature in Christ Jesus. Note his experience, told in II
Corinthians 3:18 - II Corinthians 4:16 and in Romans 8:23.
“Even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the
redemp-tion of our body.” This means that the man, whose soul is redeemed, is
longing for and groaning for a glorified body.
The Holy Spirit is the earnest of something better than the condition of the believer
described in II Corinthians 4:16. Read Ephesians 1:13 and 14. In Philippians 3:20
and 21 we learn that the glorified state of believers means bodies like unto the
glorious body of the glorified Christ. Then the spotless glorious Church will be
presented unto Christ.
Christ, in addition to His Divine nature, took upon Himself human nature; that
believing children of Adam, in addition to their human natures, might receive Divine
natures. (Hebrews 2:14 - II Peter 1:3 and 4 and John 1:11 to 13).
The Lord Jesus Christ will appear in a moment in the twinkling of an eye for the
redemption of the bodies of members of His Body. (I Corinthians 15:51 to 55). Then
for the redemption of Israel. (Luke 21:27 to 33). Then for the redemption of the
earth.
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STUDY FIFTY - THREE

TOPIC: PRINCIPALITIES AND POWERS
READ EPHESIANS 6:11 TO 20 - EPHESIANS 3:10 - ROMANS 8:38
COLOSSIANS 1:16 - COLOSSIANS 2:15 - TITUS 3:1 EPHESIANS 1:21 - I
CORINTHIANS 15:24
Most important instructions are given to members of the Body of Christ in
Ephesians 6:11 and 12 - “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to
stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but
against PRINCIPALITIES, AGAINST POWERS, against the rulers of the darkness
of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (the heavenlies).” Think of
the paradox; The angel of light is the head ruler of darkness.
These great unseen heavenly forces are real and only the blood-redeemed saint of
God, in the panoply of Ephesians 6:11 to 18, can stand against spiritual wickedness
and Satan’s PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS in the heavenlies. Let us not think of
Satan as being in the lake of fire. But while he is at the head of evil forces in heaven,
we know that Satan also is the god of this age and the prince of this world. (John
12:30 to 32 - Luke 4:1 to 10 - II Corinthians 4:3 and 4). As we read Satan’s offer to
Christ in Luke 4, we know something of his power.
Yes, Satan is at the head of all world systems, societies and brotherhoods, whether
they be political or religious, if Christ is not the center. He is transformed into an
angel of light. (II Corinthians 11:14). He is subtle, wise, powerful and clever. He is
the great deceiver not only deceiving the sinners but he uses his devices on
Christians. (II Corinthians 11:1 to 3 - II Corinthians 2:12 to 14 - Ephesians 6:11 and
12). Even though Satan is the prince of the world, Christ Himself said, “render unto
Caesar the things which are Caesar’s.” (Matthew 22:21). So we read in Titus 3:1,
“be subject to PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS, to obey magistrates.” Satan is a
usurper, and is doomed. How wonderful for the Christian to know that
PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS, whether under Satan as a political leader or under
him as a religious leader, can never separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
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(Romans 8:38 and 39). We learn, in Colossians 1:16, that the Lord Jesus Christ
created thrones, dominions, PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS. When they were
created before the fall of Lucifer, the anointed cherub, they were not antagonistic,
ungodly PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS. Christ created all things but nothing evil.
The fourteenth chapter of Isaiah, the twenty-eighth of Ezekiel, together with Luke
10:18, Revelation 12:7 to 11 and Revelation 20:1 to 10 tell us how the prince of this
world’s course is down, down, down, down and down. Out of the mountain of God
into other heavenlies; next to the earth as the dragon; then to the bottomless pit and
finally to the lake of fire, prepared for the devil and his angels. Satan, as a roaring
lion, does go about seeking whom he may devour. (I Peter 5:8 and 9). But we read of
the prince of the power of the air in Ephesians 2:1 to 3, the spirit now working in the
children of disobedience. Yes the devil is the ruler of world darkness at the head of
PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS.(Eph. 6:11- 13).
In Ephesians 1:19 to 23, we read of the mighty power of God which He wrought in
Christ when He raised Him far above the heavenly PRINCIPALITIES and
POWERS. Christ, thereby, spoiled PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS and made a
show of them triumphing over them in His resurrection and His ascension.
(Colossians 2:15). Christ will come back to this earth, as the last Adam, to put down
all rule (PRINCIPALITY), and all AUTHORITY and POWER. (I Corinthians
15:24). Then He will deliver the kingdom up to God that He may be all in all. (I
Corinthians 15:28). The reason why every Christian should make others see the
dispensation of the mystery, that the Church might make known to
PRINCIPALITIES and POWERS the manifold wisdom of God, which has to do
with the Body of Christ, seated in the heavenlies, and perhaps headed for the high
place once occupied by Satan. (Ephesians 2:6 and Ephesians 3:8 to 11).
Satan hates this truth with a vicious hatred but very few Christians are causing him
much concern by propagating it or even knowing it.
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STUDY FIFTY – FOUR

TOPIC: CHRIST -ISRAEL -AND THE GENTILES
READ MATTHEW 15:24 - MATTHEW 10:5 AND 6 - EPHESIANS 2:11 TO 13
ACTS 13:46 - ROMANS 11:11 AND 30
In very clear, simple language we read in Matthew 10:5, the command which the
Lord Jesus Christ gave to His twelve apostles, “go not into the way of the Gentiles.”
Christ meant what He said.
In Romans 10:13 to 15 we learn that faith cometh by hearing the Word of God. How
can they believe unless they hear and how can they hear unless a preacher be sent?
Christ on earth and his apostles and disciples were not sent to Gentiles. Gentiles
could not hear, for the preacher was not sent to the Gentiles while Christ was here on
earth. His statement concerning His own ministry is very positive and clear: “I am
not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” (Matthew 15:24). He spoke
of the Jews as “children”, the Gentiles as “dogs.” The rulers of Israel had to tolerate
the Gentiles politically, but religiously they held them in contempt. Israel in “the
times of the Gentiles”, politically had to render unto Caesar the things that were
Caesar’s.
Read what the Jews did to Christ when He mentioned in their synagogue how two
Gentiles had received the Lord’s blessing: “And all they in the synagogue, when
they heard these things, were filled with wrath. And rose up and thrust Him out of
the city, and led Him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they
might cast Him down headlong.” (Luke 4:28 and 29). Think of it - the religious Jews
angry unto murder because Gentiles had been blessed by God.
Note what the twelve apostles said when they had a splendid opportunity to preach
to a poor needy Gentile: “But He (Christ) answered her not a word. And His
disciples came and besought Him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.”
(Read Mark 7:24 to 30). This poor needy Gentile woman was of great faith and she
took her place as a Gentile “dog,” receiving the leavings from the Jews’ table.
(Matthew 15:25 to 27 - Mark 7:28).
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At the time the Lord Jesus Christ was on earth, made under the law (Galatians 4:4),
born to be Israel’s Saviour (Acts 13:23), He was the Minister of the Jews, sent only
to Israel. (Romans 15:8 and Matthew 15:24). At that time the Gentiles were aliens
from the commonwealth of Israel, far-off atheists. (Ephesians 2:11 to 13).
For some months after the death and resurrection of Christ, the apostles and disciples
preached to Jews only. (Acts 11:18). It was not permissible for the Jewish Christians
to go to unsaved Gentiles. (Acts 10:28). When the Jewish Christians refused to sit at
the same table with Gentile Christians, after the commission of Acts 13:2, that was
going too far. (Galatians 2:11 to 14).
When Paul told the Jews at Jerusalem that he saw Jesus in a trance in their temple
and Jesus said to Paul, “get thee out of Jerusalem; I will send you far hence to the
Gentiles”, those Jews wanted to tear Paul into pieces. (Acts 22:17 to 21). But when
they forbade Paul and others to preach Christ to the Gentiles, they got into very, very
serious trouble. (I Thessalonians 2:14 to 16).
But Israel’s serious trouble and disgrace brought great blessing and grace for the
Gentiles. (Romans 11:11, Romans 11:15 and Romans 11:30). God then ushered in a
new period and gave Paul a new dispensation of the grace of God for Gentiles.
(Ephesians 3:1 to 11). Then God revealed His eternal purpose, His long-kept secret.
(Colossians 1:24 to 28). A part of that secret was, “Christ in the Gentile believer”,
“the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27).
Then there was no difference between the Jews and the Gentiles. They that were
nigh (Israel) and they that were afar-off (the Gentiles) were made one in Christ, in
the Joint Body of Ephesians 3:6.
In 1945 A.D. we are living in “the times of the Gentiles,” politically, and spiritually.
In the Four Gospels, as well as in much of the Book of Acts, we find much grace
mixed with God’s religious program, but not God’s unmixed, all grace program that
we find in Paul’s Epistles.
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FIFTY FIVE
TOPIC: THE DOORS OF THE BIBLE
READ MATTHEW 28:2 - JOHN 10:9 - ACTS 14:27 - COLOSSIANS 4:3 AND 4
REVELATION 4:8 AND 20 - LUKE 13:25
In this lesson we are studying some of the DOORS of the New Testament
Scriptures.
First let us read Matthew 28:2; Paul in I Corinthians 15:17.
The very crux of Christianity is the bodily resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. If
Christ had not made good His claim of John 10:17 and 18, concerning His power to
lay down and take up again His life, Christianity would have perished in a very short
while. But God by His mighty power raised Christ far above all principality, even far
above all heavens. (Ephesians 1:19 to 23 - Ephesians 4:9 to 11). The DOOR of
Christ’s sepulchre was opened and He came out and showed Himself alive by many
infallible proofs. (Acts 1:3 - Revelation 1:18).
Because of the perfect redemptive work of the perfect Christ we may accept at full
face value, and with absolute assurance, His words in John 10:9 - “I AM THE
DOOR: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” The Lord Jesus Christ is the
one and only DOOR to salvation.
If you and I knew the day of the month that God did what is recorded in Acts 14:27,
we should celebrate it with greater joy than we celebrate the Fourth of July. What a
day for us Gentiles! Read it - “God opened THE DOOR OF FAITH UNTO THE
GENTILES.” This was not while Christ was on earth. It was some years after He
went back to heaven. At that time the Gentiles were alienated from the life of God.
(Ephesians 4:18).
There is a sense in which every member of the Body of Christ is a DOORKEEPER
in the House of the Lord. (I Timothy 3:15 and 16). And you know what the Psalmist
said in Psalm 84:10. We are not to put religious timber in front of the door, but point
sinners to the open door.
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In I Corinthians 16:9 Paul said, “For a great door and effectual is opened unto me,
and there are many adversaries.” There are still many open doors and even more
adversaries under the chief Adversary.
Note the message of Revelation 3:8, ‘‘Behold, I have set before thee an open door.”
Never before were there so many open doors of opportunity for Christians.
Then Paul said, in II Corinthians 2:12, “A door was opened unto me of the Lord.” It
is wonderful to know when the Lord opens the doors for us. We repeat that there
were never as many open doors for the gospel as there are today. God is calling
Christians everywhere to enter in. What a privilege, and what a challenge, and what
a wonderful opportunity under our Bill Remember these solemn words. “When once
the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut the door.” (Luke 13:25). God will
close the door of grace, the door of opportunity for Christians, the door of salvation
for sinners.
Yes, we read in James 5:9, “Behold, the Judge standeth before the door.” Why not
enter in by Christ, the door, have Him as Saviour rather than Judge?
Perhaps you could count within a few minutes all of the Christians who are today
praying the prayer of Colossians 4:3, that a door of utterance for the mystery of
Christ, the most wonderful message for saints in all the Bible, might be opened.
Begin praying now. And sinner, remember Christ stands at your door (your heart)
and wants to come in. (Revelation 3:20).
It is interesting to read Acts 13:45 and 46, Acts 14:1 to 7 and Acts 14:27 and learn
that the door of faith was opened unto the Gentiles when and because Israel would
not believe that Christ was raised from the dead to give to them the sure mercies of
David and remission of sins and justification by and through the Lord Jesus Christ.
(Acts 13:30 to 39). Do not have the DOOR of Acts 14:27.

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